Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Lightning mechanical keyboard switches, both belonging to the linear switch category, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to the novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, offering a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning is renowned for its speed and precision, making it ideal for competitive gaming scenarios where milliseconds matter. With its clacky sound profile and slick typing feel, the Lightning switch is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, chirpy, subtle, and polished. While each switch has its unique advantages, it is essential to delve deeper beyond these generalities to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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 main difference between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Lightning in terms of housing materials lies in their bottom housings. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which offer a sharper and crisper sound profile, the CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate. This results in a switch that provides a combination of sharpness and depth in its sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a mix of clear and resonant tones.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear polycarbonate top housings, making them suitable for use with RGB lighting. This translucency enhances the visual appeal of the switches while allowing for customizable lighting effects. However, the KTT Lightning's choice of a nylon bottom housing may result in a slightly different sound experience compared to the CAP Anniversary. The nylon bottom housing is known for its ability to create a duller and rounder sound profile, which can affect the overall typing feel and acoustics of the switch.
Overall, while both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Lightning share similarities in their use of polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and resonant sound profile, the choice of different bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Lightning's nylon bottom housing offers a duller and rounder sound. Depending on personal preference, users may find one switch to be more suited to their typing style and sound preferences over the other.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the KTT Lightning linear switch reveals some notable differences. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lightning's lighter 43 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the CAP Anniversary is 65 grams, heavier than the Lightning's 50 grams. This means that the CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy resistance, while the Lightning offers a lighter and smoother typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch to type for extended periods, the KTT Lightning switch would be the preferable choice. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more tactile and forceful typing experience may lean towards the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch. Ultimately, the weight difference between the two switches caters to different preferences for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the KTT Lightning linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the CAP Anniversary provides a traditional typing experience with a bit more key travel, while the 3.0mm travel distance of the Lightning offers a shallower press for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers might prefer the Lightning switch for its shorter travel distance, but those who prefer a more substantial keypress might opt for the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
When comparing the sound of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, the CAP Anniversary is known for its smooth and quiet keystrokes due to its unique stem design that reduces resistance and excess air. On the other hand, the Lightning switch has a clacky sound profile that is sharp and percussive, making it ideal for quick responsiveness in gaming scenarios. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so personal preference plays a significant role in the perceived sound quality of each switch.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary is recognized for its snappy and stable typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation described as creamy. The KTT Lightning switch, on the other hand, offers a subtle typing feel with gentle resistance and a polished finish that enhances smooth key travel. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences in typing style and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Lightning linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble, while the Lightning switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and subtle typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing style. If the qualities are similar, using either switch will result in a comparable typing experience with slight variations in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy exceptionally smooth keystrokes 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 value speed and responsiveness, the Lightning switch could be more suitable. Additionally, if you appreciate a snappy typing feel with a creamy or polished finish, the CAP Anniversary might be the way to go, whereas if you prefer a subtle typing feel and a polished finish, the Lightning switch could be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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