Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the TTC Gold Red linear switch, both offer unique advantages for different typing preferences. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. It provides a 'snappy', 'creamy', and 'polished' typing experience, perfect for those who value stability and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, along with a snappy sound profile for added personality. Categorized as 'thocky', 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'mild', 'silky', 'subtle', and 'polished', this switch is ideal for those seeking a subtle yet satisfying typing experience. 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
43g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Red switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material choice for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. The similarity in material for the top housing between the two switches means that users can expect a comparable sound experience when typing on either one.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the CAP Anniversary and the Gold Red switches feature nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches utilizing this material for the bottom housing. This shared characteristic between the two switches means that users can anticipate a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either the CAP Anniversary or the Gold Red switches.
When considering the overall typing experience, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. The split between nylon and polycarbonate in the housing materials of the CAP Anniversary and the Gold Red switches allows for a balanced sound profile that caters to different preferences in typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a unique combination of materials that contribute to a distinct sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some distinct differences. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Red's lower actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the CAP Anniversary requires more pressure to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary also has a higher force of 65 grams compared to the Gold Red's 50 grams. This indicates that the CAP Anniversary will feel heavier and more substantial when typing compared to the lighter touch of the Gold Red. Overall, the CAP Anniversary provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Gold Red offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter actuation and bottom out force for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches provide a consistent travel distance, allowing for a smooth and consistent typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, ensuring that users can enjoy a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 linear switch is best known for its silent operation due to the CAP structure that reduces excess air and resistance, resulting in a smooth typing experience without much noise. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being overly loud. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a quieter typing experience or enjoy a more distinctive sound while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is known for its snappy and creamy typing experience, providing a responsive and smooth key press. The TTC Gold Red linear switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and silky typing feel that is gentle yet still maintains a slight resistance for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches are polished, providing a refined finish that enhances overall smoothness and reduces friction during key presses. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a more responsive and snappy feel or a gentler and smoother typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary provides a silent operation and a snappy, creamy typing experience, while the Gold Red switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a mild, silky typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound levels and typing sensations, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their own distinctive qualities. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, smoothness, and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a buttery smooth typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switch may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you value most.
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