Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches like the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Cream Yellow, it's important to understand the unique features of each to make an informed decision. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, offering a 'Creamy' and 'Polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow showcases a distinctively clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing a 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' feel. While both switches have their own strengths, such as smoothness and sound feedback, respectively, it's essential to delve deeper into their specific features to determine which one best suits your preferences and typing needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Cream Yellow both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material between the two switches suggest that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when using either switch.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Cream Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing, offering users a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in the bottom housing material, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience due to the qualities each housing material brings to the table.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on a switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the CAP Anniversary and Cream Yellow switches offers a balanced typing experience with a mix of sharp, clear sounds and deep, full tones.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the CAP Anniversary has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Cream Yellow has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while the initial force required to register a keystroke is the same for both switches, the amount of force needed to fully press the key differs slightly. The CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, making it preferable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's lighter bottom out force may be more suitable for users looking for a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on the desired weight and feel of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, with the CAP Anniversary being slightly longer than the Cream Yellow. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow for faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper press may opt for the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for being quiet and smooth, with a focus on reducing resistance for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow switch is described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound profile gives users the option to choose between a quieter, smoother typing experience with the CAP Anniversary or a more audibly satisfying and tactile experience with the Cream Yellow.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and responsive typing feel, thanks to the unique aerodynamic stem design and smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the KTT Cream Yellow switch offers a bouncy typing sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to typing sessions. This difference in feel allows users to choose between a more responsive and precise typing experience with the CAP Anniversary or a more playful and tactile feel with the Cream Yellow.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Cream Yellow switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and quiet typing experience with its innovative stem design, while the Cream Yellow stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard to their unique preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance, ensuring that users will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, you may want to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch. The innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design of the CAP Anniversary will provide exceptionally smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble. However, if you prefer a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel with a medium bottom out force, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch may be more suitable for you. The Cream Yellow's unique long-pole stem and lengthened spring offer a resonant audio feedback and a lively, elastic sensation while typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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