Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is favored for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes achieved through a novel CAP structure and aerodynamically-designed stem, providing a 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine stands out for its medium-heavy feel, buttery smooth actuation, and factory-lubed finish, offering a 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched' typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort and efficiency, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Pine switches share similar qualities when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This means that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetics from both switches due to their shared top housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the KTT Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile similar to its top housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials can lead to a noticeable difference in the feel and sound when typing on each switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affecting the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Pine switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. These differences in bottom housing materials can result in varying typing experiences for users, with the CAP Anniversary offering a softer bottom-out feel and sound compared to the Pine's more resonant and clear sound upon key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Pine linear switch. The CAP Anniversary requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the KTT Pine only needs 45 grams to actuate and 58 grams to bottom out, falling into the medium category. The lighter actuation force of the Pine might make it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to type on. However, some users may prefer the heavier feel of the CAP Anniversary for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the user will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance suggests that in terms of key feel and responsiveness, both switches will yield similar results. The Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Pine linear switches offer a consistent typing experience with their identical travel distances, making them suitable options for those seeking a specific key feel.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 switch is known to have a unique and novel CAP structure that results in a smooth keystroke, but the specific sound qualities of this switch are not explicitly described in the provided information. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone with a mellow quality during key presses. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard layout, keycap material, and overall build.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is noted for its snappy and creamy typing experience, indicating a super responsive and smooth keystroke feel. This switch is designed to offer stability, minimal wobble, and enhanced smoothness due to its unique stem design and aerodynamic principles. Similarly, the KTT Pine switch is described as medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for an effortless typing experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with a buttery and creamy feel, thanks to its factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for smooth key travel. Both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience, enhancing the overall tactile feedback for the user.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the specific sound characteristics of the CAP Anniversary are not explicitly stated, the Pine switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile. Both switches provide a buttery and creamy typing experience, with the CAP Anniversary boasting snappy and creamy qualities, and the Pine offering a buttery and smooth feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch with its unique CAP structure may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams and value buttery smooth key travel with a polished, factory-lubed finish, the KTT Pine switch could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing feel and overall typing experience.
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