Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Ice offer two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts looking for a linear experience. The CAP Anniversary stands out with its innovative CAP structure, which not only enhances smooth keystrokes but also minimizes resistance through aerodynamic design features like tiny holes for air release and a specially shaped stem. This results in a typing experience that is often described as snappy, creamy, and polished, making it great for both typing and gaming aficionados seeking precision and stability. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switch captivates users with its visually striking transparent design, coupled with a smooth tactile response and a satisfying sound on bottoming out. While it may not have the same focus on stability as the CAP Anniversary, the Ice switch is recognized for its versatility, catering to both gamers and everyday typists alike looking for a premium feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Ice mechanical switches share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice leads to a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio feedback during typing. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows it to produce a clear and resonant sound, which is especially beneficial for users seeking an engaging auditory experience. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes both switches apt for configurations that incorporate RGB lighting, as the light can pass through and enhance the visual appeal of the keyboard.
In contrast, the bottom housing material presents a clear divergence between the two switches. The CAP Anniversary opts for nylon, a classic choice that imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively soft nature. This quality absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Ice employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which aligns it with the crisp sound characteristics of its top housing. The combined effect of having polycarbonate in both sections leads to a consistent resonance but does not offer the nuanced sound variation that nylon brings to the CAP Anniversary.
When considering the implications of these materials on typing experience, the differences in bottom housing materials will affect the overall sound and feel during use. The CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing lends itself to a more muted bottom-out sound, enriching the tactile experience with its full-bodied audio feedback. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the TTC Ice retains that sharper sound, which could be perceived as less warm but more consistent with the clicky feedback in high-tempo gaming scenarios. Users can thus select either switch based on their preference for sound profile and tactile response, knowing that the similarities in top housing will provide a similar auditory experience during key release.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP Anniversary requires a moderate actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a relatively medium-heavy option. In contrast, the TTC Ice linear switch is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. This means that for typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged use, the TTC Ice may be more suitable, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel in their typing experience might lean toward the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the differences in force preference suggest that users should consider their typing habits when selecting between these two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, it is clear that the CAP Anniversary features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ice switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The traditional travel distance of 4 mm offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, which some users may find appealing for a deeper, more satisfying feel. Conversely, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Ice switch provides a quicker actuation, making it beneficial for gamers who favor faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference; those seeking a more responsive feel may opt for the TTC Ice, while users who enjoy a fuller depth in their keystrokes would likely gravitate towards the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch.
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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 comparing the sound of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, both switches present unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switches have not been explicitly described in terms of sound characteristics, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons. However, the TTC Ice switches are noted for their satisfying bottom-out sound, contributing to an auditory feedback that many users find pleasurable during typing or gaming. It's important to remember that sound can also be significantly influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, so users can achieve varying sounds with both switches depending on their specific setups.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch stands out with several attributes such as being snappy, creamy, and polished. The snappy nature of these switches highlights their responsiveness, likely due to the design of the springs, making them feel lively and engaging during typing. The creamy aspect adds a smooth and buttery touch, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, enhanced by the unique materials or factory lubrication. Additionally, the polished finish ensures reduced friction and a refined key travel, further elevating the typing experience. In contrast, the specifics regarding the feel of the TTC Ice switches are not detailed, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, given the premium nature of the Ice model, one might expect it also to deliver a notably smooth and responsive feel suitable for diverse use cases.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Ice linear switches are designed to provide pleasant typing experiences, though they do so through different qualities. The CAP Anniversary excels with its sophisticated design that ensures smoothness and stability and delivers a lively and engaging feel. Meanwhile, the Ice switch captivates with its crystal-clear aesthetic and satisfying sound profile. While the sound characteristics of the CAP Anniversary remain unspecified, users seeking similar smooth experiences can find joy in either switch, making both appealing options for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, your choice should reflect your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you crave a typing experience characterized by exceptional smoothness and a slightly heavier actuation force of 65 grams, the CAP Anniversary switch will be a great match. Its unique design not only provides a polished and buttery feel but also minimizes wobble, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions where comfort and precision are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a 60-gram bottom-out force, the TTC Ice switch is an excellent alternative. Its crystal-clear design and responsive feel strike a balance between gaming and everyday use, making it suitable if you value both aesthetics and performance. Ultimately, your decision hinges on whether you favor the stability and smoothness of the CAP Anniversary or the lightweight and satisfying feedback of the Ice, allowing you to tailor your keyboard experience to your liking.
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