Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT F2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that set them apart in the world of mechanical keyboards. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, providing a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switches stand out with a distinct hollow sound signature and a medium-light weightiness that ensures comfort during long typing sessions, offering a feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, and subtle feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT F2, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing materials. The CAP Anniversary uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the F2 incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharper and clearer sound profile associated with this material.
While both the CAP Anniversary and F2 switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, they offer distinct experiences due to their differing bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary contributes to a more rounded and dulled sound profile compared to the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances clarity and resonance. This difference in material impacts the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. Despite these variations, both switches benefit from the unique properties of polycarbonate in their top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile ideal for RGB lighting setups.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT F2 plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary produces a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2 maintains a sharp and clear sound profile. Understanding how these materials impact sound and feel can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing sound and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is clear that the F2 is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's 50 grams. The bottom out force of the F2 is also lighter at 53 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's 65 grams. The CAP Anniversary is considered medium-heavy in terms of force, while the F2 is medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the F2, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may prefer the CAP Anniversary due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, we see that the CAP Anniversary has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the F2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the F2 switch may offer a quicker response time, which is favored by gamers, while the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Both switches offer advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one will ensure a pleasant typing experience.
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 F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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 offers a unique silence that is characterized by the design of the stem and CAP structure, resulting in a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch provides a distinct hollow sound signature that sets it apart from other switches, offering a more subtle sound profile. Depending on the other components of your keyboard setup, such as the board and keycaps used, the sound of each switch may be further influenced.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is best known for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering super responsive keystrokes paired with a smooth and buttery feel. Conversely, the KTT F2 switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, characterized by its exceptionally light actuation force and gentle typing feel. Both switches offer different tactile nuances, providing varied typing experiences to suit different preferences.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT F2 switches offer unique sound and feel qualities, they both cater to the needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts in their own ways. Whether you prefer a more subdued and smooth typing experience with the CAP Anniversary, or a feathery and gentle feel with the KTT F2, you can expect top-notch performance from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured keystrokes, the F2 could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for. Enjoy exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches!
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