Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both offer unique features and advantages. The CAP Anniversary is known for its novel CAP structure, providing exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its aerodynamic stem design and reduced resistance. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a budget-friendly option with a medium-light actuation force for a smooth typing experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the G Pro 3.0 Red is categorized as 'Creamy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished', and 'Silky'. 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
50g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to both switches.
However, where the two switches diverge is in their bottom housing material. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a certain sound profile, with the CAP Anniversary offering a potentially more immersive sound experience due to its nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the bottom and top housings play different roles in the overall typing experience of a switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are more prominent when pressing down on a key. Meanwhile, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While both the CAP Anniversary and the G Pro 3.0 Red feature polycarbonate top housings for a similar crispy sound profile, the difference in their nylon bottom housings may influence the overall typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, we find that the CAP Anniversary is on the heavier side with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. For those who prefer a more tactile feel, the CAP Anniversary would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Red would suit those looking for a lighter typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying keystroke, but the weight difference is something to consider based on personal preference.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Since both switches have the same travel distance, there are no significant differences in this aspect between the two switches.
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 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the CAP Anniversary switch provides a unique auditory experience that is smooth and satisfying, with a likely low pitch due to its design. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is considered neutral in sound, making it suitable for most users with its moderate actuation force requirement and moderate sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and refined key travel. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is also creamy and polished, providing a buttery feel with smooth key travel, along with a mild sensation for gentler typing. Both switches aim to enhance the overall smoothness of typing, ensuring a pleasant tactile experience for users.
Overall, while the CAP Anniversary and G Pro 3.0 Red switches offer different sound profiles and tactile sensations, both switches prioritize smoothness and responsiveness in typing. Whether you prefer a unique auditory experience with the CAP Anniversary or a budget-friendly yet satisfying typing performance with the G Pro 3.0 Red, you can expect a high-quality switch that elevates your typing experience. Regardless of your choice, the attention to detail in design and construction of both switches will result in similar results in terms of smoothness and overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and actuation force. If you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a smooth and stable typing experience, the CAP Anniversary may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, along with a smoother and buttery typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the feel and sound characteristics that best suit your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
