Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Flaming Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flaming Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Flaming Pink both stand out as excellent choices for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its innovative CAP structure, which incorporates aerodynamic design elements to eliminate excess air resistance and deliver exceptionally smooth keystrokes, resulting in a truly snappy, creamy, and polished typing sensation. Its enlarged, hollowed-out stem post contributes to enhanced stability and minimal wobble, making it a fantastic option for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Pink switch offers a different kind of allure with its smooth and responsive feel, combined with a satisfying bottom-out sound that caters to both gamers and casual typists alike. The Flaming Pink’s sound profile is bright yet pleasantly muted, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback without overwhelming noise. Each switch boasts unique features that could fit different user 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
24mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flaming Pink, it is important to note that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. The translucence of polycarbonate also allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects when used in keyboard applications, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated. Consequently, users who prioritize sound quality and aesthetics might find that these two switches deliver similar auditory experiences and lighting effects due to their identical top housing materials.
However, when we delve into the bottom housing materials of these switches, a difference emerges. Both the CAP Anniversary and the Flaming Pink employ nylon for their bottom housings, which significantly influences the overall sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound output. This characteristic allows the bottom section of each switch to contribute to a rounder and more muted sound when bottoming out. Despite using the same materials for their respective bottom housings, these switches maintain unique auditory properties by combining the effects of their top and bottom housing choices.
Ultimately, even though the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Flaming Pink share the same materials for both their top and bottom housings, the interplay of these different materials results in distinct acoustic qualities. While the polycarbonate upper contributes to a bright and resonant sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom adds depth and warmth when the key is pressed down. Users can expect a well-rounded auditory experience that balances the high-pitched clarity of polycarbonate with the full-bodied warmth of nylon, making both switches appealing options for those seeking varied sound profiles in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The CAP Anniversary requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option for typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the Flaming Pink boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and an even lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to those who prefer a softer touch. This means that the Gateron CAP Anniversary is the heavier switch, providing a more substantial typing experience, which may be favored for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the TTC Flaming Pink, being the lighter option, would be preferable for those seeking a faster and less strenuous keystroke, accommodating prolonged use in both work and gaming settings. Overall, the choice between these switches largely depends on individual preferences for force sensitivity and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the CAP Anniversary provides a more traditional and deeper feel when pressed, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial response under their fingers. In contrast, the Flaming Pink switch offers a shorter travel distance, suggesting quicker actuation, which may be favored by gamers seeking faster response times in their gameplay. The choice between these switches ultimately hinges on personal preference; those who enjoy the hearty depth of a longer travel should opt for the CAP Anniversary, whereas those who prefer a more immediate feedback will likely gravitate towards the Flaming Pink.
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 Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 refined auditory experience, although specific details about the sound profile are unavailable. This switch's smooth operation combined with its unique design may contribute to a more muted sonic output compared to other linear switches. Alternatively, the TTC Flaming Pink switch is characterized by its smooth, responsive feel paired with a satisfying bottom-out sound. It strikes a balance with a bright yet not overly loud sound profile, making it suitable for both gaming and everyday typing without being intrusive. Ultimately, while the CAP Anniversary's sound profile is less defined, the Flaming Pink provides a more distinctly pleasurable auditory experience.
When considering their feel, the CAP Anniversary stands out with descriptors such as snappy, creamy, and polished. The snappiness adds a layer of responsiveness, making each keystroke feel engaged and lively. The creamy sensation ensures a smooth and buttery typing experience, likely enhanced by the materials and lubrication used in the switch's design. Additionally, the polished finish contributes to reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing experience. In contrast, while specific attributes of the Flaming Pink's feel are not provided, its reputation suggests a similarly smooth and responsive action, making it another excellent choice for users seeking a premium feel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Flaming Pink linear switches offer their unique takes on smoothness and responsiveness. The CAP Anniversary excels with its innovative design that enhances stability and contributes to its creamy and polished typing experience, while the Flaming Pink presents a satisfying auditory and tactile balance suited for various uses. Although the sound characteristics of the CAP Anniversary remain less defined, its smoother feel may create a similar typing sensation as the Flaming Pink, ensuring that both switches cater effectively to newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switches and TTC Flaming Pink linear switches largely comes down to your personal preferences and specific use cases. If you appreciate a medium-heavy resistance and seek an exceptionally smooth and stable typing experience, the Gateron CAP Anniversary is the switch for you. Its unique design enhances smoothness and minimizes wobble, making it ideal for those who type for extended periods and value precision. Additionally, if you enjoy a more polished typing experience with a snappy feel, the CAP Anniversary will likely meet your needs. On the other hand, if you prefer lighter switches that require less force to actuate and deliver a responsive feel, the TTC Flaming Pink should be your go-to. With its lighter 50-gram bottom-out force and satisfying sound profile, this switch is perfect for users who engage in both gaming and everyday typing, as it allows for quick and effortless keystrokes. Overall, whether you lean toward the robust smoothness of the CAP Anniversary or the delightful responsiveness of the Flaming Pink, your choice will ultimately shape your typing experience to fit your unique style and requirements.
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