Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), both linear switches. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its innovative CAP structure that delivers exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its aerodynamically designed stem with tiny holes for reduced resistance. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is known for its silent operation and smooth, pillowy feel while typing. The former is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', while the latter is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Buttery', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique characteristics that may appeal to different users depending on their 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
39g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a stiffer plastic, which contributes to a more resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. However, the CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the CAP Anniversary provides a unique sound experience when typing.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout the switch. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to the resonant sound quality, emphasizing clarity in sound production. While both switches feature translucent housings suitable for RGB lighting, the Silence Frozen (V2) provides a more uniform sound experience due to the consistency of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in keyboard switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile feel of typing. While both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharper sound, the CAP Anniversary's inclusion of a nylon bottom housing gives it a unique and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) maintains consistency in sound quality with polycarbonate throughout, resulting in a more uniform sound profile. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it is clear that they have notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The CAP Anniversary features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) is lighter, with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This makes it a more lightweight option for typing. For those who prefer a lighter touch and easier keystrokes, the Silent Frozen (V2) would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with one offering a lighter touch and the other a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm on the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) may appeal to those looking for faster response times, especially for gaming purposes. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance on the Gateron CAP Anniversary offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more traditional keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance, with the Gateron CAP Anniversary providing a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Silent Frozen (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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 offers a smooth and quiet typing experience due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch, on the other hand, provides a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile, creating a deep and rich typing sound while minimizing noise. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the CAP Anniversary focusing on smoothness and quietness, while the Silent Frozen (V2) emphasizes a satisfying thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches offer a creamy, buttery typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is known for its snappy and polished feel, with a focus on smooth key travel and reduced wobble. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch provides a feathery, subtle actuation that is light to press and comfortable for extended typing sessions. With both switches offering a creamy and polished sensation, users can expect a smooth and refined typing experience that enhances overall comfort and key responsiveness.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches present unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary focuses on smoothness and stability in sound and feel, the Silent Frozen (V2) prioritizes a thocky sound profile and feather-light actuation. Both switches offer a creamy and buttery typing experience that is smooth and refined, catering to users who seek a premium mechanical keyboard switch with distinct characteristics. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or Silent Frozen (V2), you can expect a high-quality typing experience that elevates your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the CAP Anniversary with its innovative CAP structure and stable keystrokes would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a quieter sound profile with a pillowy feel, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, whether you enjoy a snappy and polished feel or a creamy and feathery sensation, along with your preference for a thocky and low-pitched sound or a muted sound, when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
