Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Silver Pro are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features catering to different needs. The CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. It provides a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, with stability and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch is designed specifically for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes, pleasing bassy sound, and a light actuation force with a shortened travel distance. It is easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, high-pitched, polished, and silky. When choosing between these two switches, consider if you prioritize smoothness and stability for general typing with the CAP Anniversary, or quick responsiveness and light actuation force for gaming with the V3 Silver Pro. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Silver Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic helps to create a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches.
In contrast, both switches also utilize nylon bottom housings, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience. The split in housing materials means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Silver Pro ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound and aesthetic appeal, as well as nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with RGB lighting or a quieter, more absorbing sound, both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the V3 Silver Pro is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer similar results in terms of performance, with the CAP Anniversary being on the heavier side and the V3 Silver Pro being lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the V3 Silver Pro the shorter option and the CAP Anniversary the longer option in terms of travel distance. The CAP Anniversary offers a slightly deeper press, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast-paced action. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable to the individual user.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 switches are known for providing a smooth and quiet typing experience due to their unique design that reduces excess air and minimizes resistance. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switches have a high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp noise with each keystroke. In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switches are described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a responsive and refined typing experience. Meanwhile, the V3 Silver Pro switches offer an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable and low-impact typing sensation. Overall, while the sound profiles and tactile feedback of the two switches differ, both the CAP Anniversary and V3 Silver Pro switches offer smooth and enjoyable typing experiences perfect for different user preferences. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the V3 Silver Pro, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and seek an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force, easy-to-press keys, and quick keystrokes for gaming or fast typing, the V3 Silver Pro would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming needs.
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