Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Neptune both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The CAP Anniversary switch is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and stable typing experience, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. Categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', this switch provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its harmonious balance of a smooth glide and springy resistance, giving it a matte feel that is both buttery and gummy. With a wide range of characteristics like being low-pitched, mild, muted, and thocky, the Neptune offers a unique typing experience. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the TTC Neptune comes with a POM top housing, providing a unique and deeper sound profile that is more muted in comparison to polycarbonate. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate leaning towards a sharper tone and POM towards a deeper tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CAP Anniversary uses a nylon material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which mirrors the characteristics of the top housing. The polycarbonate material in the bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its effect in the top housing.
Comparing the two keyboards, the use of different housing materials in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Neptune results in contrasting sound profiles. While the CAP Anniversary combines a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing for a mix of sharp and deep tones, the TTC Neptune utilizes POM for a more unique and muted sound overall. The choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the auditory experience when typing on these keyboards, with each material offering distinct qualities that affect the sound produced.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is the lighter option with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the CAP Anniversary is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Neptune make it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary's heavier forces provide a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but the Neptune is the lighter option, while the CAP Anniversary is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we can see that the CAP Anniversary has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Neptune's 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the CAP Anniversary offers a tad more depth for those looking for a bit more cushion when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Neptune provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the CAP Anniversary offering a longer travel distance and the Neptune providing a slightly shorter one.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 CAP Anniversary switch is known for producing a smooth, refined sound that is not overly loud or clacky. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound profile that is subtle and unobtrusive. Both switches provide a quieter typing experience, with the Neptune switch having a slight edge in terms of the "matte" feel it offers with every keystroke. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so both switches can provide a pleasant auditory experience based on personal preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy and creamy, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience. In comparison, the TTC Neptune switch provides a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel that is effortless and uniform. Both switches offer a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Neptune switch stands out for its unique combination of smooth glide and springy resistance, creating a textured pleasure with each keystroke. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch both excel in providing smooth and refined typing experiences with minimal wobble and stability. While the CAP Anniversary switch offers a smoother keystroke and a more neutral sound profile, the TTC Neptune switch stands out for its ultralight feel and harmonious blend of smooth glide and springy resistance. Both switches provide a unique typing experience that is sure to enhance any user's overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and any specific characteristics that stand out to each individual user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a stable and wobble-free typing experience with medium-heavy actuation, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic design ensure smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance, resulting in a refined typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force for swift and effortless typing, coupled with a springy yet matte sensation, the TTC Neptune linear switch might be more suitable for you. Its innovative internal structure provides a frictionless glide with a touch of resistance, making each keystroke a textured pleasure. Ultimately, consider your preferences in actuation force, typing smoothness, and overall typing experience to determine whether the CAP Anniversary or Neptune switch aligns better with your needs.
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