Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that they each offer distinct qualities tailored to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. Categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', it offers a typing experience characterized by stability and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo embodies subtlety and finesse with its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel. Categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle', it strikes a balanced chord for typists seeking a versatile switch. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Mallo use polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate helps in creating a more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. While both switches share similarities in their top housing material, the key difference lies in their bottom housing material.
In contrast to their top housings, the CAP Anniversary and the Mallo utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that complements the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. By having different bottom housing materials, each switch is able to offer a more well-rounded typing experience by combining the qualities of both materials.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Mallo switches showcase a thoughtful design approach. While both switches prioritize sound quality, the split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a more dynamic typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer a unique combination of materials to cater to different preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches thanks to their well-chosen housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, the actuation force for the CAP Anniversary is 50 grams, while the Mallo's actuation force is unknown. The bottom out force for the CAP Anniversary is 65 grams, slightly heavier than the Mallo's 55 grams. Although the actuation force for the Mallo is not specified, based on the bottom out force being lighter than the CAP Anniversary, it can be assumed that the Mallo likely has a lighter actuation force as well. The CAP Anniversary provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Mallo offers a medium-light feel. Depending on individual preferences, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mallo for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the CAP Anniversary for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance they feel when pressing down on a key. Despite both switches having the same travel distance, the overall feel and actuation force may differ due to the linear nature of the CAP Anniversary switch compared to the tactile feel of the Mallo switch. Ultimately, whether using the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the KTT Mallo, users can enjoy a consistent travel distance while typing.
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 Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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 offers a unique and neutral sound profile that is not overpowering, allowing for a versatile typing experience in various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo provides a subdued sound that is dampened, offering a more subtle and gentle typing experience. Both switches provide different sound qualities, catering to individuals with different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for all.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary is known for its snappy and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and refined key travel that feels alive and polished. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo offers a feathery and mild typing experience, featuring a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and provides a gentle typing feel. While the CAP Anniversary focuses on a buttery and responsive typing experience, the Mallo offers a more approachable and light typing feel for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Mallo switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel, providing users with a range of options to choose from based on their preferences. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with a neutral sound, while the Mallo focuses on a gentle tactile feedback and subdued sound profile. Whether you prefer a snappy and polished typing experience or a feathery and subtle feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience overall. Regardless of the choice, users can expect quality and performance that will enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, stable typing experience with a snappy or creamy feel, the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a gentle tactile feedback with a feathery or subtle feel, along with a neutral sound signature, the Mallo could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for, whether it be for work, gaming, or everyday use.
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