Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flame Red are two popular options that offer unique features. The CAP Anniversary is favored for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, made possible by its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the Flame Red stands out for its stunning light diffusion, making it ideal for those who prefer backlit, RGB keyboards. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Flame Red is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the CAP Anniversary focusing on smoothness and stability, while the Flame Red provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flame Red switches, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the CAP Anniversary's top housing is more focused on clarity and resonance, the Flame Red's top housing prioritizes a rounder and duller sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize a nylon material. This choice of housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housing materials, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flame Red switches share similar qualities in their bottom housing. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound experience when using either switch, emphasizing the importance of housing material selection in achieving desired sound profiles.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flame Red switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may opt for the CAP Anniversary with its polycarbonate top housing, while individuals who prefer a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Flame Red with its nylon top housing. Regardless of the top housing material choice, both switches offer a consistent sound experience due to the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing. This highlights the significance of housing materials in determining the overall sound profile of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it's clear that the CAP Anniversary is heavier overall. The CAP Anniversary requires 50 grams of actuation force and 65 grams of bottom out force, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Flame Red is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light option. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Flame Red may be the better choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the CAP Anniversary would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches cater to different preferences, offering a range of options for users seeking their ideal typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of these switches, it is clear that both offer the same tactile experience in terms of key press. With a travel distance of 4mm for both switches, users can expect a consistent feel when typing on keyboards equipped with either the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the TTC Flame Red switches. The similarities in travel distance ensure that users will get similar results in terms of key press feedback and overall 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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 CAP Anniversary switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for users at different levels and settings. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the choice being dependent on personal preference and other factors such as keyboard setup.
Moving on to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, providing a responsive and smooth feel with reduced wobble. In comparison, the Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a gentle and refined feel with smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and stability, catering to users who appreciate a comfortable typing sensation. Whether one prefers a snappy response or a mild touch, both switches deliver a satisfying feel during use.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch offer a unique typing experience with their distinct qualities. The CAP Anniversary excels in smoothness and stability, providing a seamless typing experience, while the Flame Red impresses with its visually appealing light diffuser and weighty smoothness. Whether seeking a switch with a creamy feel or a polished touch, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both options. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and visual aesthetics, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, and visual aesthetics. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are drawn to a visually appealing light diffuser for a backlit keyboard, the TTC Flame Red switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound profile you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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