Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Gold Silver stand out with their unique characteristics. The 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 Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel distance, providing a solid bottom-out sensation with each press. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Gold Silver is labeled as 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. Each switch offers its own set of benefits, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you make the best choice for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Silver switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while the top housings are the same material, the bottom housings differ with the CAP Anniversary utilizing nylon and the Gold Silver also using a nylon bottom housing. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material.
The choice of housing materials in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Silver switches affects not only the sound profile but also the overall typing experience. With polycarbonate top housings in both switches, the sharp, higher-pitched sound will be consistent between the two. However, the nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to a different feel and sound when bottoming out keys. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material.
In terms of typing feel and sound, the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Gold Silver switches offer unique characteristics. The split between polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both switches means that each part of the switch contributes to a different aspect of the typing experience. The top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Overall, the choice of housing materials in these switches allows for a customizable typing experience based on sound and feel preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron switch is also heavier at 65 grams, while the bottom out force for the TTC switch is unknown. This means that the Gateron switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the TTC switch may offer a lighter feel due to its lower actuation force. Both switches have their advantages, with the Gateron switch being better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel and the TTC switch being ideal for users looking for a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Gold Silver switch is shorter than the CAP Anniversary switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the CAP Anniversary is more in line with traditional switch travel distances, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Gold Silver switch offers a shallower feel, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. If you value a more responsive key press, the Gold Silver switch may be the better option, but if you prefer a deeper key press, then the CAP Anniversary switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user is looking for.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound with a satisfying depth, providing a unique auditory experience. The sound produced by each switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used, enhancing the overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the CAP Anniversary and the Gold Silver switches offer a polished typing experience characterized by smooth and refined keystrokes. The CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy and creamy, providing a responsive and buttery feel with reduced friction. Conversely, the Gold Silver switch offers a silky and mild typing experience, gently guiding the fingers through each keystroke with minimal resistance. Both switches create a pleasant and effortless typing sensation, enhancing typing comfort and accuracy.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with its innovative CAP structure design, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch stands out for its rapid responsiveness and resonant sound signature. Both switches offer polished and refined keystrokes, creating a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity in each keystroke. Whether choosing the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the TTC Gold Silver switch, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, you should think about your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out feel, and a harmonious sound profile with no specified bottom out force, the TTC Gold Silver could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the unique characteristics and qualities that best suit your typing preferences and requirements.
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