Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure, which includes aerodynamically designed stems with tiny holes to reduce resistance. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky'. Ultimately, when deciding between these two switches, it's essential to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we can see that the CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, while the V3 Piano Pro has a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This means that typing on the CAP Anniversary switch may result in a crisper sound, while typing on the V3 Piano Pro switch may offer a more rounded sound experience. Both materials have their own unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon bottom housings. This suggests that the typing experience on both switches may elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The absorption of sound by nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, which can offer a more satisfying typing experience for users looking for a more muted sound profile. Despite having different top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound characteristics.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. This means that the polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary and the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro will contribute differently to the overall sound experience of each switch. However, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches means that there may be similarities in the typing experience in terms of sound profile, despite the differences in the top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's lighter 45 grams. Similarly, the CAP Anniversary also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams, making it heavier in that aspect as well. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the CAP Anniversary would be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions may find the V3 Piano Pro more suitable. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm on the Akko V3 Piano Pro gives it a slight edge in terms of a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary with a travel distance of 4 mm provides a bit more depth and a smoother feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize fast response times, the Akko V3 Piano Pro would be the better option. However, if you prefer a more substantial keypress with a bit more travel distance, then the Gateron CAP Anniversary may be the preferable choice.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 is best described as smooth and quiet, emphasizing a focus on a noiseless typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound profile, providing a lively and crisp auditory feedback with each key press. Depending on your preference for a quieter or more distinct sound, you can choose between the two switches accordingly.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is known for its snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering smooth and buttery keystrokes with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback and enhanced smoothness in each keystroke. Both switches offer a premium tactile experience, catering to different preferences in terms of key feel.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both excel in their own unique ways. The CAP Anniversary switch focuses on providing a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the V3 Piano Pro switch delivers a more distinct and lively sound signature alongside a smooth actuation. Depending on whether you prioritize a quiet typing environment or enjoy a more audible feedback with each keystroke, you can choose between the two switches to suit your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer premium quality in terms of sound and feel, ensuring an elevated typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 65 grams and are looking for exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 55 grams and are interested in a snappy sound signature with a smooth actuation experience, the V3 Piano Pro could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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