Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary stands out as a linear switch with a reputation for exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its unique CAP structure. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi offers a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. The CAP Anniversary is best known for its qualities of snappy, creamy, polished, while the Kiwi is categorized as stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, polished. If you prefer a smooth and wobble-free typing experience, the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice, whereas those who enjoy a tactile feedback and immersive typing sound may lean towards the TKC Kiwi. However, let's delve 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and TKC Kiwi both showcase innovative housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile. This material is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for its top housing, offering a very bright sound signature that produces resonant clacks during typing. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the polycarbonate in the CAP Anniversary leans towards a crisper tone, whereas the UHWMPE in the Kiwi provides a brighter, more pronounced sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CAP Anniversary utilizes nylon, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder overall sound when typing on these switches. In contrast, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing continues the bright sound signature of its top housing, offering resonant clacks that complement the overall typing experience. While the nylon in the CAP Anniversary aims for a more muffled and deeper tone, the UHWMPE in the Kiwi ensures a consistently bright and clear sound across the entire switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and TKC Kiwi will depend on personal preference regarding sound profile and typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary features a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for distinct sound qualities, the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for a consistently bright and resonant sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the crisp and clear sound of the CAP Anniversary or the bright and resonant clacks of the TKC Kiwi, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiwi has a lighter actuation force at 43 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi is slightly heavier at 67 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the TKC Kiwi may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. Whether you prefer a linear switch like the CAP Anniversary or a tactile switch like the Kiwi, both offer a consistent travel distance that can enhance the typing or gaming experience for users who value key feel and response.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 is described as having a unique and smooth sound profile due to its aerodynamic stem design and CAP structure. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing situations. Both switches offer immersive typing experiences, but the Kiwi may appeal more to those who prefer a more neutral sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary is known for its snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, thanks to its unique design and structure. The switches offer a responsive and smooth typing sensation that is enhanced by the factory-lubed components. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches provide a stepped, accented, and polished typing experience, offering a moderate bump and tactile feedback that is not overwhelming or subtle. Both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, but the Kiwi may appeal more to those who prefer a stepped tactile sensation.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer unique and immersive typing experiences. While the CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and snappy typing feel with its aerodynamic stem design and CAP structure, the TKC Kiwi stands out with its low-pitched and neutral sound profile and stepped tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and snappy typing feel, the CAP Anniversary may be the better option, while those who enjoy a medium-strong tactile bump and neutral sound profile may lean towards the TKC Kiwi.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider your preference for a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble versus a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing feel and sound profile that best suits your preferences.
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