Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch are two popular options to consider. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, as well as a clean bottom-out sound. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Matcha is described as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Matcha both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches allows for better transparency and is ideal for RGB lighting setups. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The CAP Anniversary utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharpness and clarity of the sound profile associated with this material.
While both switches share the benefits of having polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housing materials create distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, ideal for those looking for a softer typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha maintains the sharp and resonant sound profile associated with this material, resulting in a crisper typing experience. Moreover, the impact of each housing material can be felt differently when using the switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Matcha ultimately comes down to personal preferences in typing sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary offers a deeper and softer typing experience with its nylon bottom housing, while the Matcha provides a sharper and crisper typing experience with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches excel in utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, allowing for a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. Whether you prefer a rounder sound or a sharper sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a higher actuation force (50g) and bottom out force (65g) compared to the KTT Matcha tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 40g and a bottom out force of 45g. This makes the Matcha switch lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Matcha switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity allows for consistent typing experiences across both switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is similar, providing users with a familiar feel regardless of which one they choose to use.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 known for its quiet and smooth keystrokes, making it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept low. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as having a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound can be attributed to the design and materials used in each switch. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is praised for its snappy typing experience, offering a responsive feel that enhances typing speed and accuracy. Additionally, the switch provides a creamy and polished sensation, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during use. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a different tactile experience, with a stepped feel that provides two distinct stages of tactility. This switch also incorporates an accented tactility that offers a medium level of feedback without being overwhelming. Moreover, the Matcha switch is described as feathery and subtle, requiring little exertion and providing a light typing feel suitable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary switch provides a quiet and snappy typing experience with a focus on smoothness, the Matcha switch delivers a distinct clacky sound and a stepped, accented tactility for a different typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer high-quality performance, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is important to take into account your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it is important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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