Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Semi Mute stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The CAP Anniversary is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and unique aerodynamic stem design, resulting in a 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is praised for its completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology, providing a 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Neutral' feel while typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on your preferences - whether you prioritize smoothness and stability or value a noise-free environment during late-night sessions. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Semi Mute, it is clear that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. However, where the CAP Anniversary uses a nylon bottom housing to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the Semi Mute opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing to maintain the sharp, high-pitched sound profile associated with this material.
The choice of housing material for each component of the switch impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these keyboards. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp sound profile, the CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. The differences in bottom housing material are reflected in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches, as well as in the sound when releasing a key. These nuances contribute to the overall typing experience and can cater to different preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting integration in both the CAP Anniversary and the Semi Mute switches. While both switches feature this material in their top housing, the choice of nylon for the CAP Anniversary's bottom housing creates a contrast in sound profile compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for each switch play a crucial role in determining the sound characteristics and tactile feedback experienced by users, highlighting the attention to detail in the design and construction of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Semi Mute is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. The CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's lighter forces make it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue is a concern. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This is advantageous for those who prefer consistency in their typing or gaming experience. Having the same travel distance can result in a more uniform and predictable feel across both switches. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and familiar typing experience with a moderate 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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being too loud. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is designed to be completely silent, catering to users who prioritize a noise-free typing experience, especially during late-night sessions. Both switches offer a different sound experience, with the CAP Anniversary providing a moderate sound level and the Semi Mute ensuring silent operation.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a responsive and smooth keystroke feel. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a gentle and uniform typing sensation. The CAP Anniversary switch's aerodynamic stem design contributes to its polished and refined typing experience, while the Semi Mute switch's linear actuation and dampening technology focus on delivering a comfortable and gratifying feel to the users.
Summing up, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Semi Mute switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary switch provides a moderate and smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the KTT Semi Mute switch is tailored for those seeking a completely silent typing experience with a buttery and mild feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound levels and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user needs, ensuring a satisfying typing experience in their respective ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience and noise level. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability with medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with a medium bottom out force, the KTT Semi Mute switch could be more suitable. Consider your typing habits and environment to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.
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