Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its unique CAP structure designed with aerodynamic principles. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. While the CAP Anniversary switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Polaris Gray switch falls under 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Both switches have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using either of these switches, thanks to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing to create a consistent and clear sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and the sound produced when using these switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Polaris Gray will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing for a similar sound experience, the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary offers a different tactile feel compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound or a sharper and crisper sound will influence the decision between these two switches, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of around 65-67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of resistance when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch may be the better option, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches will yield similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation depth. The uniform travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of their choice between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the CAP Anniversary switch offers a unique and smooth keystroke experience due to its aerodynamically designed stem and enlarged post. The sound profile may be described as distinctive, potentially with a muted and satisfying tone. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is recognized for its clean and clacky sound, which is low-pitched, neutral, and thocky. Depending on personal preference, the CAP Anniversary may provide a quieter and more refined sound compared to the Polaris Gray switch's more noticeable and bouncy typing noise.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is noted for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering super responsive keystrokes with a smooth and buttery sensation. The Polaris Gray switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and polished feel, delivering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable and refined typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics in terms of responsiveness and smoothness.
Overall, for individuals looking for a smooth and refined typing experience with a potentially unique sound profile, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a bouncy and clacky typing feel, alongside a more neutral sound profile, might gravitate towards the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch. It is essential to consider personal preferences in sound and feel when selecting between these two switches to ensure a satisfying and tailored typing experience. Though differing in their unique qualities, both switches offer a high level of performance and can deliver a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke experience with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy typing sensation with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer the unique CAP structure and aerodynamic design of the CAP Anniversary or the bouncy feel and clean sound of the Polaris Gray. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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