Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Gateron CAP Anniversary is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem, offering a 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished'. While these general pointers can help you decide on a switch that aligns with your preferences, it's essential to delve deeper into the specific features and nuances of each switch to make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro lies in their bottom housing. The CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. This contrast in sound profiles can make a significant difference in the typing experience for users who prefer a specific type of sound.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. This results in a clear and vibrant display of colors when the RGB lighting is activated, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both the CAP Anniversary and the V3 Crystal Pro. While the bottom housing materials differ between the switches, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when keys are released. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience when letting go of keys on both switches, despite the difference in bottom housing materials.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. This means that users will feel and hear a difference depending on which part of the switch they are interacting with. Ultimately, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offer a unique combination of housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, we can see that the CAP Anniversary has a slightly heavier actuation force at 50 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 48 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary requires 65 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams, making the V3 Crystal Pro slightly lighter overall. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of overall force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the V3 Crystal Pro to be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, we find that the CAP Anniversary has a slightly longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the CAP Anniversary being on the longer end and the V3 Crystal Pro on the shorter end. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the CAP Anniversary's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a unique experience characterized by a smooth and quiet typing sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a distinct chirpy sound profile, adding a touch of liveliness to your typing sessions. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a responsive and smooth key press. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch enhances the overall typing sensation, ensuring minimal friction and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy feel with elastic feedback, giving the keys a lively bounce and rebound upon pressing. The polished finish of these switches also contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the CAP Anniversary switch focuses on providing a smooth and stable typing experience with a quiet sound profile, the V3 Crystal Pro switch emphasizes a chirpy and bouncy feel with a distinct sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, regardless of your choice, both switches are designed to enhance your typing sessions and provide a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and value a smooth keystroke with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force of 60 grams and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience. So, it's essential to consider what qualities matter most to you when selecting the switch that will provide you with the best typing experience.
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