Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Light Cloud V2 stand out as top contenders, each offering unique features for different typing preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. This switch provides a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, making it ideal for those who value smoothness and stability in their typing. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is favored for its silent operation and refined typing feel. With a lightweight design, this switch offers a mild, muted, and easy-to-press typing experience that is perfect for users seeking a delicate and nuanced 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Light Cloud V2, the most significant difference lies in the top housing material. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. While the polycarbonate housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound, the nylon housing provides a duller and rounder sound for a different typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the CAP Anniversary and the Light Cloud V2 employ nylon in this component. Nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches using this material. Therefore, despite having different top housings, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel thanks to the shared nylon bottom housing. This consistency in the bottom housing material ensures that users will still experience a similar level of sound absorption and typing feedback regardless of the switch they choose.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it is clear that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in shaping the sound profile and typing feel. The properties of the top housing material will have a significant influence on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Despite the differences in material between the two switches, the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom, ensuring a well-rounded typing experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback for both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Light Cloud V2.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, a noticeable difference can be seen. The CAP Anniversary has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Light Cloud V2's 45 grams, making it slightly more resistant to accidental key presses. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary requires 65 grams of force while the Light Cloud V2 only needs 58 grams, making the Light Cloud V2 slightly lighter and easier to press down fully. Both switches fall within the medium range of force, but the slight variations can cater to different preferences. Some may prefer the slightly heavier actuation of the CAP Anniversary for a more substantial typing experience, while others may appreciate the lighter bottom out force of the Light Cloud V2 for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The shorter travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Overall, both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the Light Cloud V2 being the shorter option and the CAP Anniversary being the longer option.
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 Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary switch offers a unique experience with a focus on smoothness and reduced resistance, resulting in a softer and more subtle sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch is specifically designed to be muted, providing a quieter typing experience for those who prefer a more discreet keyboard. Both switches excel in minimizing unnecessary noise, ensuring a peaceful environment for typing without sacrificing the tactile feedback that mechanical keyboards are known for. With either switch, you can expect a pleasant typing experience without disturbing those around you.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is characterized by its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a responsive and smooth feel that enhances the overall typing performance. The TTC Light Cloud V2 switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, perfect for users who prefer a gentle typing feel with minimal resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and pleasant typing experience, catering to different preferences and needs of users. Whether you prefer a more responsive and polished feel or a light and feathery touch, both the CAP Anniversary and Light Cloud V2 switches deliver on providing a fulfilling typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary excels in smoothness and stability, providing a softer sound and a snappy typing feel, the Light Cloud V2 focuses on a muted sound and mild, easy-to-press feel for a more delicate typing experience. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth keystroke experience with a stable and wobble-free typing feel, then the CAP Anniversary may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate and nuanced typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 may be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a muted sound profile and a snappy, creamy, or polished feel, the CAP Anniversary could be your ideal pick. Conversely, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild, easy-to-press, or feathery feel, the Light Cloud V2 may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for typing experience and sound.
Mentioned in this article
