Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro represent two distinct choices that cater to different typing preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch, characterized as a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth keystrokes facilitated by its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic design. This results in minimal resistance and a stable feel, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, as a tactile switch, provides a pronounced tactile bump that delivers satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Its bass-heavy sound signature appeals to those who enjoy an audible typing experience, making it ideal for typists who appreciate a dynamic sensation with each press. While the CAP Anniversary emphasizes smoothness and quiet operation, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro highlights tactile feedback and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches share a striking similarity in their top housing material, as both utilize polycarbonate. This commonality contributes to a comparable acoustic experience, as polycarbonate is known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant sound when typing, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing auditory output. Additionally, both switches benefit from polycarbonate's translucency, making them particularly suitable for use with RGB lighting. This characteristic enhances visual effects by allowing the light to pass through, creating a vibrant and visually appealing setup.
In contrast, the bottom housing of these switches diverges in material, as both the CAP Anniversary and the V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilize nylon. This choice of material imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile to each switch, thanks to nylon's softer properties that absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Because of this acoustic absorption, users can expect a duller and rounder sound, particularly noticeable during the bottom-out phase when typing. As the bottom housing significantly affects the feel and sound emitted when pressing the key down, the nylon material ensures a satisfying keystroke experience—an aspect that both switches share and enhance.
Ultimately, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches have different bottom housing materials, their top housing's similarity in polycarbonate ensures that users will experience specific acoustic qualities in both cases. The sharpness and clarity from the polycarbonate top harmonize nicely with the fuller sound achieved by the nylon bottom, enriching the overall typing experience. The resulting combination offers a well-rounded auditory experience, balancing the crispness of the top housing with the richness of the bottom, allowing users to enjoy a versatile and engaging sound profile regardless of their choice between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP Anniversary switch features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a significantly lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Akko switch more appealing, whereas those who enjoy a firmer, more substantial feel may favor the heavier Gateron switch. Consequently, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter option, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary is heavier, catering to different user preferences for typing dynamics.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This distinction highlights a preference for different typing experiences; the CAP Anniversary, with its longer travel, offers a more traditional and deeper keystroke that some users find gratifying. In contrast, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, with its shallower 3 mm travel distance, caters to those seeking quicker response times and a snappier feel, which is particularly advantageous for gaming. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference: if you enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the longer travel of the CAP Anniversary would likely suit you better, whereas if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the suitable option.
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 Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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 produces a subdued yet pleasant acoustic profile that reflects its focus on smoothness and stability. The innovative structural design minimizes any rattling, resulting in a satisfying, softer sound that many users find appealing when typing for extended periods. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a more expressive audio signature, characterized by a loud sound profile with a distinctly bassy pitch. This feature is sure to catch attention in a more lively typing atmosphere, adding a layer of auditory feedback for those who enjoy a more pronounced click. Each of these switches provides a different auditory experience, fitting various preferences depending on the user's environment and taste.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches excel in delivering a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. The responsive nature of these switches allows for quick actuation, paired with an exceptionally smooth keystroke that feels luxurious under your fingers. The factory lubing and unique stem design contribute to a refined tactility, making each press feel seamless. In contrast, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro was not specified for its feel attributes, although its tactile design suggests a more pronounced bump, which would likely provide a tangible feedback sensation that many find satisfying. Without the specific details, it's difficult to make a direct comparison, but you can expect a fundamentally different typing sensation driven by the switch mechanisms.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch stands out for its smoothness and refined feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a soft, stable typing experience with a discreet sound. Conversely, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a louder and more tactile interaction, appealing to users who enjoy a pronounced auditory and tactile feedback. Both switches have distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, whether it be a serene typing experience or an engaging, feedback-rich environment. Users can find great satisfaction in either option, depending on their individual typing styles and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and specific typing needs. If you prefer a heavier feel with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the CAP Anniversary switch offers a smooth and snappy typing experience, enhanced by its innovative design that minimizes resistance and wobble. This makes the CAP Anniversary an excellent choice for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming, as its smooth operation allows for quick keystrokes with greater precision. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter responsiveness and crave tactile feedback, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro with its 50-gram bottom out force could be more suitable for you. Its prominent tactile bump and lively sound profile create an engaging typing experience that is particularly enjoyable for writing or casual use. Ultimately, consider whether you lean toward a smooth, consistent linear feel or prefer the tactile enjoyment and responsive feedback of a tactile switch.
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