Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the PH Studio Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it is important to note their distinct features. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure that reduces resistance and wobble, providing a snappy and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch stands out for its unique auditory blend, offering a high-pitched yet muted sound, along with a light bottom-out force for prolonged typing comfort. While the CAP Anniversary is known for its stability and smoothness, the Milk Tea switch caters to those seeking a balance between presence and subtlety. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the PH Studio Milk Tea, we can see that both switches have distinct characteristics based on their top and bottom housing materials. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Milk Tea utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housings differ in material and sound profile, both switches offer a unique auditory experience that caters to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the CAP Anniversary is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the Milk Tea also incorporates a POM bottom housing, which enhances the switch's sound profile with deeper and more muted tones. Despite the differences in material, both switches showcase the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and PH Studio Milk Tea switches plays a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles and tactile feedback. While the CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper sound profile, the Milk Tea's POM top housing delivers a deeper and more muted tone. On the other hand, both switches feature bottom housings that contribute to a fuller sound experience, with nylon providing a rounder sound in the CAP Anniversary and POM enhancing the depth in the Milk Tea. Despite their differences, these switches showcase the versatility and impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea switch is lighter in both respects. The CAP Anniversary has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Milk Tea boasts a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. This means that the Milk Tea switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch would be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The 4.0mm travel distance of the CAP Anniversary is more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the 3.6mm travel distance of the Milk Tea is slightly shallower, making it preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the CAP Anniversary offering a bit more depth and the Milk Tea providing a faster response. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable travel distance that can cater to different user needs.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 switch is known for its smooth and quiet operation, creating a gentle and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch provides a high-pitched yet muted sound, offering a unique auditory blend that strikes a balance between presence and subtlety. While the CAP Anniversary switch focuses on providing a smooth and stable keystroke, the Milk Tea switch aims for a more distinct auditory profile that may appeal to those looking for a slightly more pronounced sound during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and PH Studio Milk Tea switches offer a polished typing experience. The CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy and creamy, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience that feels alive and buttery. Similarly, the Milk Tea switch is also polished and silky, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for effortless keystrokes. Both switches prioritize delivering a refined and sleek typing experience, making them suitable choices for users who appreciate smooth and effortless key presses.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and PH Studio Milk Tea switches offer different sound profiles, they share a focus on providing a smooth and polished typing experience. The CAP Anniversary switch emphasizes stability and minimal wobble for smooth keystrokes, while the Milk Tea switch features a unique auditory blend with a focus on extended typing comfort. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer quality options that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter, subdued sound profile or a more pronounced, high-pitched sound, while still enjoying a smooth and effortless typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability in your typing experience, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. With its unique CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem, this switch offers exceptional smoothness and minimal wobble, providing a premium typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a balance between auditory presence and subtlety, along with a lighter bottom-out force for extended typing sessions, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch could be the perfect fit. Designed with a high-pitched yet muted sound profile and a silky typing experience, this switch caters to those who prefer a quieter typing sound. Consider your priorities in terms of sound, feel, and typing needs when choosing between these two switches, and select the one that aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and PH Studio Milk Tea switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing requirements.
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