Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the KTT Mint linear switch, both switches offer unique features for a satisfying typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure designed for reduced resistance and enhanced smoothness. On the other hand, the Mint boasts a satisfyingly smooth linear feel with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Mint both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light transmission. However, despite both switches using the same material for their top housing, the design and construction may vary, leading to subtle differences in sound and feel.
On the other hand, both switches also utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more muffled compared to the clear and sharp sound produced by polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that can be preferred by some users for a quieter typing experience. Again, while both switches use the same material for their bottom housing, slight design differences may result in unique sound and typing feel between the two switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Mint may result in subtle variations in sound and typing feel. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing, the design and construction of each switch can impact the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a clear and sharp sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that the Mint switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the CAP Anniversary. The Mint switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the CAP Anniversary switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it heavier and providing a more substantial typing feel. This means that those who prefer a heavier push when typing should opt for the CAP Anniversary switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch should go for the Mint switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style, as both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces to cater to a variety of user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. Users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness with both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and KTT Mint switches due to their equal travel distances.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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
When it comes to sound, the CAP Anniversary switch offers a unique experience due to its novel CAP structure, resulting in exceptionally smooth keystrokes with reduced resistance and wobble. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch is described as low-pitched and neutral, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them will depend on your personal preference and setup.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy, creamy, and polished characteristics, offering a super responsive typing experience with a smooth and buttery feel. The KTT Mint switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches offer a polished feel, the CAP Anniversary switch may appeal to those looking for a more lively and responsive typing experience, while the KTT Mint switch offers a gentler and more approachable feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch both bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary switch stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes with reduced resistance and stability, while the KTT Mint switch offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a light and fleeting feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to provide a high-quality typing experience that enthusiasts and newcomers alike can appreciate.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider the following: If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a poppy thockiness, the Mint is a great option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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