Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Pink 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 Gold Pink both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its smooth keystrokes and stability due to the innovative CAP structure, making it ideal for those seeking a snappy and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Pink is renowned for its light actuation force and clacky sound, providing a buttery and feathery typing experience suited for rapid typing or gaming. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Pink feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. This means that both switches will provide a similar auditory and visual experience due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches feature nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Pink will provide a similar tactile and auditory experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing material.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Pink differ in their respective top and bottom housing materials, the qualities each material brings to the switches are complementary. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a unique typing experience where the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches ultimately offer similar sound profiles and tactile feedback, making them both suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a distinct typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the TTC Gold Pink linear switch which has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Gold Pink switch lighter in terms of force required to both actuate and bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Gold Pink switch may be the better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the CAP Anniversary switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out force would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, with the lighter force of the Gold Pink offering quicker actuation and the heavier force of the CAP Anniversary providing a more pronounced keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, determining the amount of movement you feel when pressing down on a key. As a result, using either of these switches will provide a similar experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring consistent performance for users.
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 Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 smooth and muted sound profile, while the TTC Gold Pink switch offers a more clacky and audible typing experience. The CAP Anniversary switch may be preferred for those looking for a quieter typing experience, whereas the Gold Pink switch is suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy and possibly polished, providing a responsive and refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switch is characterized as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a light and gentle typing feel with a smooth travel distance. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience but cater to different preferences in terms of resistance and feedback.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Gold Pink switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble, while the Gold Pink switch stands out for its light actuation force and satisfying feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize smoothness or a light typing feel, both switches can cater to various typing needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, you should consider your preference for key feel and actuation force. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a unique CAP structure for smooth keystrokes and stability, the CAP Anniversary would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with a fast and effortless typing experience, the Gold Pink would be more suitable, especially for rapid typing or gaming. Additionally, if you value a light and lively typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the Gold Pink would be a perfect fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Mentioned in this article
