Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Honey 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 Honey stand out as popular linear options. The Gateron CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its unique CAP structure, which reduces resistance and enhances smoothness. On the other hand, the TTC Honey provides a smooth and creamy typing experience accompanied by a deep and pleasant sound profile. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Honey is described as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches offer their own set of advantages, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
42g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Honey, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing leads to a more clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. While both switches share this common feature, the CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Honey incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which still contributes to a sharper sound profile but with a different impact on the overall typing experience.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Honey switches offer distinctive sound profiles thanks to the various housing materials used. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Furthermore, the top housing of each switch plays a significant role in the typing experience, with the polycarbonate top housing maintaining a consistent high-pitched sound profile for both options. However, the differing bottom housings provide a unique tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys, showcasing how the choice of housing material impacts the overall feel of the switch.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Honey both utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, their distinct bottom housings offer varying experiences in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey contributes to a sharper and crisper typing experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance is crucial for enthusiasts looking to personalize their keyboard typing experience based on sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making them suitable options for those seeking a customized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that the Honey is the lighter option. The Honey has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. For those who enjoy a stronger push feel, the CAP Anniversary would be the better choice. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the TTC Honey linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range for travel distances but offer slightly different experiences for users. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feel may lean towards the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 and Honey switches offer different experiences. The CAP Anniversary is known for its unique aerodynamic stem design which minimizes air resistance, resulting in a smoother keystroke rather than producing a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the Honey switches are described as having a subdued sound, meaning they are not completely silent but produce a more subtle sound compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the CAP Anniversary and Honey switches offer a creamy typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is characterized as snappy, giving a super responsive typing feel, while also offering a smooth and buttery sensation that is akin to gliding across the keys effortlessly. Additionally, the CAP Anniversary exhibits a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. Similarly, the Honey switches are described as providing a frictionless and buttery typing experience, offering an extremely smooth and effortless keystroke without any sense of resistance. The Honey switches also feature a subtle typing feel, making them suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch provide a smooth and pleasant typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary prioritizes smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and stability, the Honey switches focus on a creamy and buttery typing sensation with a subdued sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as both offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and a uniquely smooth keystroke with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing feel with a pleasant sound profile, the Honey switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing sensation and sound.
Mentioned in this article
