Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Iron mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that both offer unique features and benefits. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the TTC Iron is known for its pronounced clacky sound signature and swift actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary is 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Iron is 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Depending on your preferences, you may lean towards the smoothness of the CAP Anniversary or the satisfying clackiness of the TTC Iron. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This type of plastic is relatively stiff, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the TTC Iron features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing is favored for its translucency and compatibility with RGB lighting, the Iron's POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound experience. Despite their differences, both top housings contribute significantly to the overall sound profile of the switch.
When it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the TTC Iron also features a POM bottom housing, which provides a similarly deep and muted sound experience. Both bottom housings play a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Iron may have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the overall sound profiles they produce are similar in some aspects. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Iron provides a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary and the POM bottom housing of the Iron both contribute to a fuller and deeper sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it is clear that the Iron switch is lighter in both aspects. The CAP Anniversary requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Iron's 41 grams. Similarly, the CAP Anniversary has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Iron's 50 grams. This means that the Iron switch will provide a lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Iron switch would be the better option. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances but offer slightly different feels when pressed. The CAP Anniversary may provide a slightly deeper keypress feel compared to the Iron, which could be preferred by those looking for a more substantial keypress experience. On the other hand, the Iron's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals looking for a quicker response time. Overall, the travel distance of a switch can significantly impact the typing or gaming experience, so it's essential to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between the two switches.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 renowned for its smooth and muted sound profile, allowing for a quiet typing experience that won't disturb those around you. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its distinct clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying and pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a soft and subtle typing experience or a more lively and audible one.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is celebrated for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a responsive and smooth actuation that feels effortless and refined. The TTC Iron linear switch, on the other hand, boasts an easy-to-press and mild typing feel, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a gentle and low-impact typing sensation. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback that caters to different typing styles and preferences, whether you prefer a snappy and responsive feel or a gentle and easy-to-press one.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch offer unique and desirable qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience with the CAP Anniversary or a clacky and satisfying one with the Iron, both switches provide exceptional performance and satisfaction in their own right. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that you'll achieve a premium typing experience regardless of which switch you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the TTC Iron linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and prioritize a smooth keystroke experience with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a pronounced clacky sound with swift typing sessions, the TTC Iron could be the better option. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch as described, and make your decision based on what aligns best with your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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