Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes achieved through a novel CAP structure designed with aerodynamics in mind. This results in a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its smoothness and affordability, providing a buttery smooth feel with a low-pitched "thock" sound. Categorized as buttery, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, it offers a different typing experience compared to the CAP Anniversary 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches will contribute to a duller and rounder sound, creating a consistent typing experience in this aspect.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffness, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) uses a nylon top housing, which is expected to elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. This contrast in materials suggests that users can expect a different typing experience when it comes to the sound produced by pressing down on the keys and when releasing them.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches share a similar bottom housing material, the differences in their top housing materials will result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different user preferences. Whether one prefers the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique typing experiences that can enhance the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The CAP Anniversary has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom-out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 52 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel. This means that the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will be easier to type on for longer periods due to the lighter actuation force, while the CAP Anniversary will give a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the preference of the user, with the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) being lighter and the CAP Anniversary being heavier.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. The consistency in travel distance between these two switches allows for a familiar typing experience regardless of which one you choose to use. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, making them both suitable options for those looking for a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 unique design that results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes. The sound profile of this switch is not explicitly described in the provided information. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as providing a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound, evoking a smooth and buttery typing experience with a bassy and thocky tone. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is characterized by a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. The switch offers stability, minimal wobble, and a smooth glide, making keystrokes feel alive and effortless. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as providing a buttery typing sensation, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform keystroke experience. This switch is designed to be smooth and fluid, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the CAP Anniversary focusing on an exceptionally smooth keystroke with stability and minimal wobble, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) emphasizes a buttery and uniform typing sensation with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. It's important to consider all aspects mentioned above, as well as individual preferences, when choosing between the two switches for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the factors of bottom-out force, smoothness, sound profile, and typing feel. Opt for the Gateron CAP Anniversary if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and prioritizes smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble. On the other hand, choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for a budget-friendly option with a medium-light bottom-out force, smooth keystrokes, and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. If you value a snappy and polished typing experience, the CAP Anniversary might be more suitable, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery feel for effortless typing. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences for key characteristics in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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