Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch. The CAP Anniversary switch is renowned for its novel CAP structure, which results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes. Its aerodynamic stem design with tiny holes and enlarged, hollowed-out stem post reduces resistance and wobble, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro lineup offers unbeatable value for gamers. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm and vibrant RGB lighting, these switches deliver lightning-fast responsiveness and an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. While the CAP Anniversary is praised for its smoothness and stability, the G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out for its gaming performance and competitive advantage. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite using the same material for their top housings, the switches may still have differences in sound due to other factors such as design or overall construction.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches differ in their choice of material. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics in terms of depth and fullness. Despite using different materials for their bottom housings, the switches may produce similar typing experiences due to the shared qualities of nylon as a housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper and clearer sound, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housings of both switches enhance the depth and fullness of the sound, providing a distinct typing experience. Despite differences in housing materials, the switches may still offer similar results in terms of sound quality and typing feel, showcasing the subtle ways in which material choices can impact the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches, it is apparent that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the lighter option. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter to the touch. In contrast, the CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches provide a distinct typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver offering a more lightweight and responsive feel, while the CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial and weighted typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with some preferring the lighter touch of the G Pro 3.0 Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation of the CAP Anniversary for a more pronounced typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The difference of 0.6 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience. The G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a shallower travel distance, providing a quicker response time, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking speed. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more deliberate key press with greater depth. Both switches have their own strengths, so choosing between them depends on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 is known for providing a unique auditory experience due to its aerodynamic design and smooth keystrokes, resulting in a quiet and satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. Overall, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so results may vary.
In terms of feel, users praise the CAP Anniversary switch for its snappy and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. The polished finish of the switch enhances the overall typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation while ensuring efficient and responsive keystrokes. Both switches offer a premium typing feel that enhances the overall user experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary switch emphasizes a smooth and quiet typing experience with its aerodynamic design, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch focuses on providing a bassy sound profile and lightning-fast responsiveness for gaming enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the user, as both switches offer high-quality performance and an enhanced typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and intended use. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes, stability, and minimal wobble, then the CAP Anniversary with its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for lightning-fast responsiveness, a competitive gaming advantage with shorter travel distance, and an enhanced gaming experience with RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch sound profile, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is the way to go. Ultimately, consider your typing or gaming style, as well as the specific features you value most when making your decision.
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