TTC Brother vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother and TTC Neptune offer distinctive experiences that cater to different preferences. The Brother, a clicky switch, is celebrated for its lightweight design with a breezy actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both responsive and comfortable. The satisfyingly crunchy sound signature of the Brother appeals to clicky switch enthusiasts, offering clear and precise feedback with each click. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out in the switch landscape with its innovative internal structure that merges a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi. This unique combination gives the Neptune a distinctive "matte" feel, creating a textured pleasure with every keystroke. While the Brother is characterized as crunchy and easy-to-press, the Neptune offers a buttery, gummy typing experience with a muted sound signature. 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
37g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the TTC Neptune, one noticeable difference is in the top housing. The Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Neptune's POM top housing produces a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Another distinction between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to stiffer plastics. In contrast, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The differences in bottom housing materials highlight how varying material compositions can influence the acoustics and tactile feedback of a switch.
While the Brother and Neptune have different combinations of housing materials, both switches highlight the importance of the top and bottom housing in creating a unique typing experience. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings impacts the sound profile and feel of each key press. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the qualities that each housing material brings to the overall switch design, users can tailor their typing experience to suit their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, the Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams. The Neptune, however, has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Brother is unknown. The actuation force is crucial in determining the initial force needed to register a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the maximum force required to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the TTC Brother clicky switch would be the preferable choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Neptune linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is clear that the Brother has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Brother switch's shorter travel distance may provide a more responsive typing experience, while the Neptune's slightly longer travel distance may offer a bit more depth and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch is well-known for its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, akin to stepping on crisp autumn leaves. In contrast, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a muted sound profile, keeping the auditory ambiance refined and unobtrusive. The low-pitched and subdued sound of the Neptune provides a quieter typing experience compared to the distinct clickiness of the Brother. Thus, if you prefer a more subtle and quieter typing experience, the Neptune would be the ideal choice, whereas the Brother is perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced and lively sound with each keystroke.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses for a comfortable typing experience. Its stepped feel adds a unique touch to the typing sensation, with a two-stage tactile response. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a buttery and frictionless typing experience, ensuring smooth and effortless keystrokes. The gummy and mild feel of the Neptune further enhances its typing comfort, akin to bottoming out on a gummy bear or trampoline. Those who prefer a more seamless and fluid typing experience would appreciate the Neptune, while the Brother caters to individuals who enjoy gentle resistance and a stepped key feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother excels in providing a lively and crunchy sound with an easy-to-press and stepped feel, ideal for those who appreciate audible feedback and tactile response. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out with its muted sound profile and buttery, frictionless feel, appealing to users seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that you'll get satisfactory results tailored to your liking regardless of the switch you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on their characteristics. If you prioritize a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a tactile typing experience with a subtle tactility, opt for the TTC Brother clicky switch. Its lightweight nature and clear, crisp click sound make it a top choice for clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a muted sound profile, the TTC Neptune linear switch is the way to go. Its unique internal structure provides a matte feel and a swift, effortless typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you value the audible feedback and distinct tactile bump of the Brother switch or the smooth, textured pleasure of typing on the Neptune switch. Consider your sound and feel preferences to make an informed decision that suits your typing style best.
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