Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary, a linear switch, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, each offer unique advantages for different preferences. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, providing a 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown from Gateron's budget-friendly series offers a gentle tactile bump without disrupting typing flow, categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Stepped'. While the CAP Anniversary focuses on smoothness and stability, the G Pro Brown prioritizes a balanced tactile sensation and enhanced RGB lighting. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Standard
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may produce slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both switches use nylon, a classic material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, which allows it to absorb more sound and produce a duller, rounder sound. This contrast in housing materials highlights the importance of considering how different components of a switch can affect sound and feel. Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, the overall sound profile of both the CAP Anniversary and G Pro 3.0 Brown may still share similarities due to their similar nylon bottom housings.
When it comes to typing experience, the combination of different housing materials in the CAP Anniversary and G Pro 3.0 Brown will impact the overall sound and feel of each switch. The bottom housing material will have a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will contribute to the sound when releasing a key. This nuanced interaction between housing materials underscores the importance of understanding how each component influences the overall typing experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer the crisper sound of the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the fuller sound of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, both switches offer a unique typing experience that showcases the impact of housing materials on switch performance.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch differ slightly. The CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown's 55 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, the CAP Anniversary has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown's 63 grams. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a slightly heavier initial push, it requires less force to bottom out completely. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer a balance between lightness and heaviness in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing feel and actuation point, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a standard travel distance. With identical travel distances, users can expect 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 is known for its quiet and smooth operation due to its innovative CAP structure, which minimizes excess noise during key presses. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-high pitch sound with a satisfying auditory feedback that adds an enjoyable layer to typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be impacted by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary is renowned for its snappy and creamy typing experience, providing a super responsive and smooth feel that enhances the overall typing flow. In comparison, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers an easy-to-press and mild tactile sensation, requiring minimal force to activate and ensuring a comfortable typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Brown also features a stepped design that provides a gentle bump without overpowering the typing flow, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a more subtle tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offer different sound profiles and tactile sensations, both switches excel in providing a premium typing experience. Whether you prefer a quiet and smooth operation with the CAP Anniversary or a medium-high pitch sound with a subtle tactile feedback from the G Pro 3.0 Brown, you can expect a high level of quality and performance from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a gentle tactile sensation with a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting, and an overall economical yet quality option, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and aesthetic preferences.
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