Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary, a linear switch, and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), also a linear switch, it's important to note the distinct qualities that set them apart. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its innovative CAP structure that delivers exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to aerodynamic principles and a unique stem design. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly option known for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance, ideal for both gaming and typing purposes. While the CAP Anniversary is characterized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', 'Polished', the Milky Yellow Pro is described as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own merits and target audience, offering different experiences and functionalities. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
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 Yellow Pro (KS-3), it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. While both switches share this characteristic, the difference lies in their top housing material. The CAP Anniversary utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) also uses nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its bottom housing.
The choice of housing material in a switch can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of typing. With the Gateron CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a switch that produces a sharper and clearer sound profile, especially when used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a different typing experience compared to the CAP Anniversary. While both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in top housing material showcases how polycarbonate and nylon can offer distinct sound profiles for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) boils down to personal preference in sound and typing experience. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant typing experience. Conversely, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to users looking for a rounder sound profile. Both switches share the benefits of using nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound overall. Ultimately, the different housing materials in each switch provide users with unique sound profiles to suit their individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial keystroke pressure. However, the Gateron CAP Anniversary has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams, making it slightly more resistant to full depression. The CAP Anniversary offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a bit more resistance when fully pressed, suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro provides a medium typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, making it ideal for users looking for a smoother keystroke without excessive pressure. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the CAP Anniversary leaning towards a heavier feel and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel distance when using either of these switches. The linear nature of both switches also ensures a smooth and consistent key press without any tactile bump or audible click. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is identical, providing users with a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is best described as having a unique and novel sound profile, due to its aerodynamic stem design aimed at reducing resistance and enhancing smoothness. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy "thocky" sound, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is highly regarded for its snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. The longer or dual-staged springs in the switch make it super responsive, while the smooth and buttery feel adds a luxurious touch to typing. Contrarily, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch offers a buttery and textured typing sensation, providing a seamless and uniform keystroke experience with a subtle friction that some users may prefer.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary provides a unique and aerodynamic design for smoother keystrokes, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels in delivering a classic budget-friendly switch with a low-pitched, bassy sound profile and buttery, satisfying feel. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary for its innovative features or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for its reliable performance, you can expect a premium typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique typing experience with exceptionally smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its aerodynamic stem design and CAP structure ensure stability and reduce resistance, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, if you are seeking a budget-friendly switch that excels in both gaming and typing with a satisfyingly thick resistance and low, "thocky" sound, then the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be a perfect fit. Its smooth and buttery typing experience makes it a versatile option for all-purpose use. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your preference for a unique typing feel versus a budget-friendly option with a versatile performance.
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