Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Yunhai stand out as two strong contenders, each offering a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its innovative CAP structure, which not only enhances the smoothness of keystrokes through its aerodynamic stem design but also minimizes resistance with strategically placed air-release holes. This results in a polished and creamy typing feel characterized by stability and minimal wobble, ideal for those who appreciate precise and controlled input. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai offers a distinctively feathery touch, featuring a soft actuation that makes it exceptionally easy on the fingers. Its deep, rounded sound profile creates an engaging auditory experience, perfect for typists seeking a gentle and effortless typing sensation. While the CAP Anniversary prioritizes a premium tactile experience with its stability and smoothness, the Yunhai leans towards a more casual, relaxed feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect 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
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Yunhai, distinct differences emerge, particularly in the choice of materials for the top housing. The CAP Anniversary employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucent properties. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for setups that utilize RGB lighting. The clarity and resonance brought about by polycarbonate create a distinct auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Yunhai opts for nylon in its top housing, a material recognized for its softer nature. Nylon's ability to absorb sound leads to a deeper and more rounded sound profile, offering a vastly different tactile feedback compared to polycarbonate. Thus, the sound characteristics between the two switches diverge significantly when considering their top housing materials.
In terms of bottom housing, both the CAP Anniversary and Yunhai switches utilize nylon, providing a level of uniformity in the acoustic experience they deliver at a foundational level. This consistency in material means that both switches will generate similar sound profiles based on the nylon bottom housing's capacity to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Since nylon is employed in this component for both switches, it contributes to a similar feel and sound during key presses, aligning both models in this aspect of tactile feedback. The potential for deeper sounds emanating from the nylon bottom housing will be a commonality in both switches, making them more alike than different at this level.
Ultimately, the overall auditory experience when using these switches is a product of the interplay between their materials in both the top and bottom housings. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing may create a brighter sound when the key is released, while the nylon bottom housing would provide a fuller sound at bottom-out. Conversely, the Yunhai's nylon top housing will produce a rounder sound when the key is released, but similarly benefit from the nuanced depth of the nylon bottom housing. Users looking for a crisp sound profile with RGB compatibility may prefer the Gateron CAP Anniversary, while those who favor a rich and enveloping sound may gravitate toward the TTC Yunhai. Ultimately, despite the differences in top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom ensures a comparable depth to the acoustic experience in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch with the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to distinct preferences. The CAP Anniversary requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Yunhai switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Yunhai is significantly easier to press down, which may be more appealing to those who prefer prolonged typing sessions or casual gaming, as the reduced force can prevent fatigue. Conversely, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the CAP Anniversary provide a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a firmer push feel. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter option, the TTC Yunhai is the better choice, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary will likely appeal to those who appreciate a more robust keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, the differences are quite evident. The CAP Anniversary features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that offers a deeper and more tactile feel for users who enjoy a substantial actuation depth. In contrast, the Yunhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who prefer quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. While both switches provide a smooth linear experience, the CAP Anniversary's longer travel distance may suit users who appreciate a more pronounced pressing action, whereas the Yunhai's shorter distance could appeal to those seeking efficiency and speed in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 CAP Anniversary switch remains somewhat undefined, inviting curiosity about its acoustic properties. However, as sound can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard case and keycap selections, it’s vital to remember that individual setups can change the overall audio profile significantly. On the other hand, the Yunhai switch is noted for its deep and rounded sound signature, which can add a pleasant auditory dimension to one’s typing experience. Thus, while the CAP Anniversary's sound is still a mystery, the Yunhai provides a distinct and enjoyable auditory feedback that typists may appreciate.
When considering the feel of these switches, the CAP Anniversary boasts a combination of snappy, creamy, and polished traits. This means users can expect a responsive typing experience that is also buttery smooth and refined. The incorporation of aerodynamic principles in its design leads to a tactile feedback that is both lively and satisfying. In contrast, the Yunhai switch is characterized by its exceptionally light touch, providing a feathery feel that demands minimal effort during keystrokes. This light actuation force makes it an excellent choice for those who might find heavier switches tiresome over prolonged use, although it might lack the textured depth found in the CAP Anniversary.
Overall, while both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TTC Yunhai linear switches offer unique advantages, they cater to slightly different preferences. The CAP Anniversary excels in creating a rich tactile experience marked by smooth and responsive feedback, making it ideal for those seeking a refined typing sensation. Meanwhile, the Yunhai emphasizes a lightweight feel and pleasing sound profile, catering to typists looking for a gentler touch. Depending on what aspects resonate more with you—whether that is the nuanced smoothness of the CAP Anniversary or the effortless, rounded sound and feel of the Yunhai—you’re likely to find satisfaction in either choice, with each switch offering its distinct charm.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a snappy and polished feel that offers an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience, the CAP Anniversary is an excellent choice. Its unique design promises minimal wobble and remarkable stability, making it ideal for those who value responsiveness during intensive typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a feathery, effortless keystroke, the Yunhai switch is perfect for you. Its lighter 50-gram actuation force and rounded sound profile cater to typists who enjoy a comfortable and strain-free experience, particularly during extended uses such as writing or studying. Ultimately, consider what attributes you prioritize: the robust and refined experience of the CAP Anniversary or the gentle and friendly touch of the Yunhai. Choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your comfort and productivity, so take your personal preference into account.
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