Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch, known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure. The aerodynamic stem design with tiny holes reduces resistance and enhances smoothness, while the stability and minimal wobble of the enlarged, hollowed-out stem post elevate the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch, featuring beautiful translucent switches with a light actuation force of 37g. The 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and discernible bump with each keystroke, ensuring a delightful typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, catering 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
37g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Phalaenopsis both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the CAP Anniversary also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate in their construction. This clear housing not only allows for the transmission of RGB lighting but also adds a modern and sleek look to the switches. While the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in a unique sound profile for both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Phalaenopsis, with the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary offering a deeper sound compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches provides a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile. However, the choice of bottom housing material distinguishes the sound experience between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Phalaenopsis. The CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This difference in bottom housing material allows for a varied typing experience and sound feedback between the two switches.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Phalaenopsis is the lighter option overall. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has a lower actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The CAP Anniversary provides a medium-heavy typing experience, requiring more force to input keystrokes, while the Phalaenopsis offers a lighter touch for a smoother typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Phalaenopsis for extended typing sessions, while the CAP Anniversary may be more suitable for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. In either case, both switches provide distinct tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance travelled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent typing experience without much variation. It is worth noting that a shorter travel distance can lead to faster typing speeds, while a longer travel distance can result in a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether using the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the KTT Phalaenopsis switch, you can expect similar results in terms of 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer different auditory experiences. The CAP Anniversary switch provides a smooth and possibly quieter typing sound due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile with its 50g tactile force and unique construction. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build, keycaps, and overall setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for its snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, thanks to its innovative stem design and stability features. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, indicating a two-stage tactile feedback that provides a different sensation during typing. The light actuation force of the Phalaenopsis switch can contribute to effortless and comfortable typing, while the discernible tactile bump adds satisfaction to each keystroke.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in their unique ways. Whether you prefer a smoother and potentially quieter keystroke with the CAP Anniversary or a more tactile and satisfying feedback with the Phalaenopsis, choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. As both switches are designed to provide an improved typing experience, you can expect similar high-quality results in terms of performance and comfort regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and exceptionally smooth keystrokes, the CAP Anniversary may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a satisfying tactile bump, and effortless typing experience, the Phalaenopsis could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision should be based on factors such as typing comfort, sound preferences, and overall typing experience. Both switches have their unique features and advantages, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your choice.
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