Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Purple Star both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. This switch provides a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a stable and wobble-free key feel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out. It offers a mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press profile, making it a great choice for light typists seeking comfort and ease of use. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 KTT Purple Star, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their top housing material. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the POM top housing of the Purple Star produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the sound profiles are different, both materials provide a pleasing and unique auditory experience, catering to different preferences in sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both bottom housing materials absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique bottom housing materials.
When considering the overall sound profile of each switch, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials complement each other. The top housing impacts the sound when pressing a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. While the CAP Anniversary and the Purple Star may use different materials for their top and bottom housings, the end result is a well-balanced sound profile that caters to different preferences in typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique and satisfying sound profile based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is the lighter of the two switches. The actuation force of the CAP Anniversary is 50 grams, while the Purple Star requires only 43 grams to actuate. Additionally, the bottom out force of the CAP Anniversary is 65 grams, whereas the Purple Star bottoms out at 50 grams. This makes the Purple Star a lighter option compared to the CAP Anniversary, which is medium-heavy. The difference in force between the two switches may impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Purple Star, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, the CAP Anniversary has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Purple Star's 3.5 mm. The 4 mm travel distance of the CAP Anniversary falls within the more traditional range, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the Purple Star's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice for individuals seeking a faster response time. Gamers, in particular, may opt for the Purple Star due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize a shorter travel distance for quick key presses or a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Both switches offer their own advantages, so you can expect similar results in terms of performance with either 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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
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 its low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a more bass-heavy sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch offers a neutral sound signature that is described as low-pitched, giving it a smooth and gentle sound profile. Ultimately, the sound experience of each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is lauded for its snappy, creamy, and polished characteristics. This means that it offers a super responsive typing experience with a smooth and buttery feel, thanks to lubrication and refined materials. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort and ease, albeit through different tactile approaches.
In conclusion, while the CAP Anniversary and Purple Star switches may differ in sound and feel, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound or a neutral sound signature, as well as a snappy and creamy feel or a mild and easy-to-press experience, both switches provide a smooth typing experience with minimal wobble and stability. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences and the type of typing experience one seeks.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth keystroke and stable typing experience, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a buttery smooth typing experience and easy actuation, the KTT Purple Star linear switch would suit your needs better. Consider your typing style and preferences for bottom-out force, feel, and sound when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
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