Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Wine Red both offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is known 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. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch offers a pillowy light typing feel with a deep and rich sound profile, categorizing it as bassy and low-pitched. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, making them suitable for various typing needs. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Wine Red switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for use with RGB lighting, making both switches visually appealing for users looking to customize their setups with colorful lighting effects.
On the other hand, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Wine Red features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with the top housing material. This consistency in material between the top and bottom housings may result in a more uniform sound profile and typing experience across the entire switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Wine Red may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches boast a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Wine Red's consistent polycarbonate housing throughout. Whether you prioritize a uniform sound across the entire switch or prefer a mix of sound qualities from the top and bottom housings, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the Wine Red is the lighter option. The Wine Red has a lower actuation force of 44 grams compared to the 50 grams required for the CAP Anniversary. Similarly, the Wine Red has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, while the CAP Anniversary bottoms out at 65 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Wine Red make it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary's heavier actuation and bottom out force provide a more substantial typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, both switches have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users can expect to feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches provide a consistent experience for users, offering similar results in key press feel. Therefore, whether using the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the KTT Wine Red switch, users can expect a similar travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a unique and smooth typing experience, but the specific sound characteristics are not mentioned in the provided information. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is described as having a deep and rich sound profile, with descriptors such as "bassy" and "low-pitched". This suggests that the Wine Red switch may provide a more resonant and satisfying auditory feedback while typing.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, along with a polished finish that enhances the overall smoothness of key travel. The specific feel of the Wine Red switch is not mentioned in the provided information, but based on the descriptions, it can be inferred that the pillowy light type feel of the Wine Red switch may offer a softer and more cushioned typing experience compared to the potentially more responsive and smooth feel of the CAP Anniversary switch.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch stands out for its smooth keystrokes, stability, and minimal wobble, providing a refined and premium typing experience. While the sound and feel qualities of the Wine Red linear switch may cater to a different preference with its deep and rich sound profile and pillowy light type feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, it's important for newcomers to consider these subjective qualities and test out different switches to find the best fit for their needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the KTT Wine Red linear switch, you should opt for the CAP Anniversary if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and value a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble. The unique stem design of the CAP Anniversary provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes, making it a great choice for those who prioritize typing comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a pillowy light typing feel with a deep and rich sound profile, the Wine Red may be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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