Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) can significantly affect your typing experience. The Gateron CAP Anniversary switches are celebrated for their innovative CAP structure, which provides extraordinarily smooth keystrokes through a unique stem design that minimizes resistance and wobble. This linear switch is often described as 'snappy' and 'creamy', offering a polished feel that many gamers and typists appreciate for quick, uninterrupted typing. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch that delivers a medium level of resistance with a satisfying bump at actuation, providing a more deliberate typing experience suited for those who enjoy feedback with each keypress. Additionally, these switches are designed to be quiet, making them an excellent choice for office environments or shared spaces where noise is a consideration. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Gateron CAP Anniversary appealing to those who prioritize smoothness and speed, while the TTC Silent Bluish White favors a more nuanced and quiet feedback. 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
42g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches share a significant similarity in their top housing material, both crafted from polycarbonate. This choice of material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, a characteristic that stems from polycarbonate's inherent stiffness. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing makes both switches well-suited for RGB lighting applications, enhancing the aesthetic aspect of keyboards designed with illumination in mind. As a result, both switches will deliver a clear and resonant sound profile upon keypress, appealing to users who prioritize auditory feedback during typing.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches utilize nylon, which brings a distinctly different quality to the overall sound experience. Nylon is revered for its softer texture, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The material's ability to absorb sound waves better than harder plastics results in a rounder and duller sound, as evidenced in both switches. As the bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying tactile experience when they engage the switch fully. Thus, while the top housings focus on clarity and brightness, the bottom housings foster a more subdued and rich audio signature.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) creates a nuanced auditory experience. Since they share the same materials for both the top and bottom housings, keyboard enthusiasts can expect some overlap in their performance characteristics. However, the distinct effects of each material will influence the sound profile as you type. The sharper, more pronounced sound from the polycarbonate top will harmonize with the softer, warmer tones generated by the nylon bottom, making these switches an interesting study in contrasts, yet providing a cohesively appealing typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to varying user preferences. The Gateron CAP Anniversary features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which yields a medium-heavy feel suited for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) presents a lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Thus, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is the heavier choice, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is the lighter one, offering a significant contrast in tactile feel and required force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, the CAP Anniversary features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that users of the CAP Anniversary switch might experience a more substantial feedback and depth when pressing down on keys, which can offer a more traditional typing sensation. Conversely, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Silent Bluish White (V2) aligns well with the preferences of gamers seeking quicker response times, as well as those who prefer a more tactile feel with less key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences: those who enjoy a deeper, more deliberate keystroke may gravitate towards the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary, whereas users prioritizing responsiveness may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Bluish White (V2).
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, the differences are notable. The CAP Anniversary switches offer a sound that can easily be characterized as refined and smooth due to their linear nature, though specific descriptors weren't provided. This allows for a quieter typing experience when compared to more clacky or louder switches. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is specifically designed to minimize noise, producing a muted sound that is soft and suitable for office environments or shared spaces. The muted characteristic of these switches makes them ideal for users who wish to maintain a quieter atmosphere during typing sessions, contrasting with the potentially more acoustic nature of the CAP Anniversary line.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switches offer a combination of snappy responsiveness, creamy smoothness, and polished refinement. The snappy nature ensures that each keystroke is quick and reactive, making typing feel more engaging. The creamy texture enhances the experience by providing a buttery smooth glide with each press, while the polished finish contributes to reduced friction and an overall sleek typing sensation. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) boasts a mild tactile feedback characterized by a buttery, smooth keystroke. Its stepped tactile nature provides an enjoyable experience without being overly pronounced. The subtle resistance, combined with its polished finish, ensures both comfort and a refined feel while typing, making it approachable for various users.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switches and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switches offer unique typing experiences, they cater to different preferences. If you’re looking for a snappy, creamy, and smooth linear switch, the CAP Anniversary would be a great choice, especially for tasks requiring quick reaction times. For those prioritizing a quiet yet tactile feel in their typing, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides an ideal balance of muted sound and mild tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you value responsiveness and smoothness over a subtler tactile response in quieter settings.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel that provides a snappy and smooth typing experience, the CAP Anniversary is an excellent choice. Its unique design features ensure exceptional stability and minimal wobble, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile yet fluid keystroke. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, particularly in shared or office spaces, the Silent Bluish White (V2) would be more suitable for you. With its lighter bottom-out force and muted sound, this switch offers a mild and gentle tactile feedback without the excessive noise, appealing to those who seek comfort without disruption. In the end, let your typing habits and environment guide your decision to ensure you select the switch that enhances your keyboard experience the most.
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