Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Kang White both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White stands out for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness attributed to its self-lubricating material. While the CAP Anniversary is characterized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Kang White is labeled as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals, making them suitable for different typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Kang White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing material of these switches is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches provide a clear and resonant sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. However, while they share similarities in sound profile, the overall typing experience may differ based on other factors such as spring weight and key design.
While the top housings of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Kang White switches are made of polycarbonate, their bottom housings are composed of nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite their different bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon, providing a blend of sharpness and depth in sound profiles.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches contributes to the overall typing feel and sound characteristics. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Whether typing on the Gateron CAP Anniversary with its nylon bottom housing or the KTT Kang White with the same material, users can expect a distinct typing experience that combines the qualities of both housing materials for a unique sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Kang White's 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the CAP Anniversary is 65 grams, while the Kang White has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier touch, while the Kang White offers a lighter feel, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, with the CAP Anniversary being slightly heavier overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of either switch. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth keypress, with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long. Overall, the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Kang White linear switches is the same, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 CAP Anniversary switch offers a unique and smooth typing experience, with a focus on reducing resistance and enhancing smoothness through its design. On the other hand, the Kang White switch is known for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. The Kang White switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which can provide a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. When comparing the sound of these two switches, the CAP Anniversary may offer a smoother and more refined sound profile, while the Kang White switch may provide a unique and captivating typing experience with its low-pitched tones.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a super responsive and buttery smooth typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. The Kang White switch's feel quality is not specified in the information provided, so it is unknown how it compares in terms of snappiness, creaminess, or polish. Nonetheless, based on the information available, it can be inferred that the CAP Anniversary switch may provide a more refined and sophisticated typing feel compared to the Kang White switch.
Overall, the CAP Anniversary and Kang White switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary switch excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with its innovative design, while the Kang White switch stands out for its dazzling sound and unmatched smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. Depending on personal preferences and typing preferences, users may choose the switch that best suits their needs and desired typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as sound preferences, typing feel, and overall typing experience when selecting between these two switches to ensure an optimal mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, smoothness, typing sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, then the CAP Anniversary might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a dazzling typing sound, and unparalleled smoothness due to self-lubricating material, then the Kang White could be the ideal switch for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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