Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, both switches offer a smooth typing experience with their unique features. The Gateron CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro stands out for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience and a neutral sound signature that suits various environments. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Gold Red Pro is categorized as 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. Each switch has its own strengths that appeal to different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Red Pro, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing are similar in both switches, providing a consistent auditory experience for users. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing element to the switches, enhancing the overall aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron CAP Anniversary utilizes nylon while the TTC Gold Red Pro also features a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and creating a duller and rounder sound. The qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing are split between the bottom and top of the switch, impacting the sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The combination of the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches results in a well-balanced typing experience with a mix of sharpness and depth in sound.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Red Pro may differ in their bottom housings, they both offer a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing delivers a clear and resonant sound, ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer a combination of qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, which requires 43 grams to actuate. This means that the Gateron switch will feel slightly heavier when typing. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron switch also requires more force at 65 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the TTC switch. Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a lighter actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the TTC switch more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals who prefer a heavier push feel may opt for the Gateron switch for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the CAP Anniversary being slightly longer than the Gold Red Pro. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but for some users, it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may lean towards the Gateron CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 best described as having a unique and smooth sound profile that is not overly loud or distracting. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is known for its subtle yet satisfying thocky sound that is neither too high-pitched nor too dull, making it versatile for various settings. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is often praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, thanks to its innovative design and smooth keystrokes. Similarly, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch offers a polished and silky typing feel that is gentle yet refined, providing a comfortable typing experience for extended use. The similarities in feel between these switches ensure that users can expect a smooth and satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches offer unique advantages in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary provides a smooth and stable typing experience with its innovative design, the Gold Red Pro switch showcases versatility and adaptability in various typing environments. Ultimately, whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the Gold Red Pro, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that is tailored to your preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value versatility, ease of press, and a neutral sound signature in a switch with an unspecified bottom out force, then the Gold Red Pro could be the more suitable option. Both switches offer unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in your typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing needs.
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