Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flaming Purple both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Gateron CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple is known for its resonant character and feathery feel, making typing a swift and effortless experience. The CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', while the Flaming Purple is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Low-pitched', 'Resonant', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
47g
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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flaming Purple both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary and the Flaming Purple also share nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Despite having different top and bottom housings, both switches provide a harmonious blend of sound qualities from the respective materials.
While the top housings of the CAP Anniversary and the Flaming Purple are both made of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ with the CAP Anniversary using nylon and the Flaming Purple also utilizing nylon. This variation in bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with nylon contributing to a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique tactile experience when using these switches, as each part plays a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of typing.
In terms of construction, the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Flaming Purple play a significant role in shaping the typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing resulting in a resonant sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of each switch adds a different dimension to the overall feel and sound quality. Whether it be the sharper, higher-pitched sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper, fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a unique typing experience that showcases the benefits of utilizing different materials in switch construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple switch is lighter in both aspects. The CAP Anniversary has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Flaming Purple has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams. This means that the Flaming Purple switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push required for each keystroke. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to the preferences of individuals who may have varying typing styles and needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Flaming Purple switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The CAP Anniversary offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to users who enjoy a slightly deeper key press. In contrast, the Flaming Purple switch provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth 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 TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for its neutral and smooth sound profile, characterized by a reduction in excess air and minimal wobble, resulting in a quiet and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple switch stands out for its bassier undertones, creating a resonant and engaging auditory flair during keystrokes. While the CAP Anniversary offers a more subdued and stable sound, the Flaming Purple adds a touch of depth and richness to each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery key press with minimal resistance. The polished finish of the switch enhances the overall typing feel, providing a sleek and refined sensation. In comparison, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The silky smoothness of the Flaming Purple switch enhances the typing experience by minimizing resistance and offering a light and comfortable keystroke.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Flaming Purple linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary provides a stable and refined typing experience with a quiet and smooth sound profile, while the Flaming Purple introduces depth and richness to keystrokes with its resonant and engaging bassier undertones. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the CAP Anniversary focusing on stability and smoothness, and the Flaming Purple prioritizing ease of typing and engaging auditory flair. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a feathery, easy-to-press feel with a touch of bassy undertones in sound, the Flaming Purple switch may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, whether you prioritize stability and smoothness or effortless typing and engaging sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. It's important to consider what aspects of typing experience matter most to you in order to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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