KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, you'll find yourself in a dilemma between a light touch with crisp actuation and a smooth, frictionless glide. The Ash Gray offers a pleasant tactile feedback that is not overwhelming, categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. On the other hand, the Neptune provides a unique typing experience with its ultralight build and matte feel, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Subdued', and 'Thocky'. While the Ash Gray focuses on a tactile response, the Neptune excels in its smooth and effortless typing experience. 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
38g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, especially when used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune boasts a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the Ash Gray's polycarbonate is better suited for those looking for a clearer and resonant sound, whereas the Neptune's POM housing is more suited for those seeking a deeper and more soothing typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the Ash Gray utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing materials showcases how each switch can offer a contrasting typing experience based on the material used in its construction.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Neptune comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Ash Gray excels in creating a sharper and clearer sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Neptune offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing. However, if you are looking for a switch with similar qualities in both top and bottom housing, both options can provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective unique sound profiles.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray has a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Ash Gray. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires a heavier force of 53 grams compared to the Neptune's 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience with the Ash Gray. Essentially, the Ash Gray offers a lighter actuation force but a heavier bottom out force compared to the Neptune, catering to different preferences for typing feel. Ultimately, the lighter actuation force of the Neptune may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Ash Gray may be chosen for a more satisfying and substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ash Gray tactile switch. The Ash Gray tactile switch may provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value speed and accuracy in their key presses. On the other hand, the Neptune linear switch with its longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more pronounced and deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 KTT Ash Gray switch offers a neutral profile, suitable for a variety of settings and preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch provides a low-pitched, subdued, and muted sound, creating a refined and quiet typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Ash Gray being more versatile and the Neptune offering a more calming and subtle sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a gentle and approachable typing sensation. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless, and polished feel, creating a smooth and effortless typing experience with a unique springy resistance. Both switches aim to provide comfort and ease of typing, with the Ash Gray focusing on a light touch and the Neptune emphasizing a frictionless glide.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray provides a tactile response with moderate sound and an easy-to-press feel, suitable for various typing preferences. Meanwhile, the Neptune delivers a smooth and quiet typing experience with a springy resistance and polished finish. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether one prefers a more traditional tactile response or a smooth, frictionless typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Ash Gray if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a tactile response that strikes a balance between being noticeable and subtle. This switch offers an easy-to-press feel, ideal for reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. Opt for the Neptune if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience. This switch provides a unique "matte" feel and produces a low-pitched, muted sound that maintains a refined ambiance. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light touch or a linear switch with an ultralight feel and a more buttery typing sensation. Consider your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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