Bsun Cliff vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two compelling options are the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Neptune, each catering to distinct typing preferences and styles. The Cliff tactile switch is celebrated for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, providing users with a satisfying feedback that enhances typing accuracy and overall experience. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response while typing or gaming. In contrast, the TTC Neptune offers a unique experience with its innovative internal structure that delivers a smooth, frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy mochi. Its ultralight weight allows for swift, effortless typing, and the muted, thocky sound signature creates a serene typing atmosphere. While the Cliff might appeal to those seeking tactile feedback, the Neptune is ideal for individuals who prioritize a fluid typing experience with minimal resistance. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Neptune switches, notable differences emerge in their sound profiles and overall auditory characteristics. The Cliff boasts a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which promotes resonance and clarity. On the other hand, the Neptune features a top housing made from POM, a material known for producing a deeper, more muted sound. While the Cliff's polycarbonate design enhances its adeptness for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Neptune's POM composition presents a contrasting aesthetic that may appeal more to those who appreciate a subtler appearance.
In terms of bottom housing, the Bsun Cliff utilizes a nylon material, classically preferred for its ability to generate a fuller, deeper sound profile. Its softness allows it to absorb sound effectively, thus creating a duller, rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the TTC Neptune employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer sound due to its stiffer composition. This difference in materials significantly affects the overall feel of each switch; the nylon bottom housing of the Cliff enhances the bottom-out feel, while the polycarbonate of the Neptune impacts the clarity of the sound when the key is released. As such, both switches provide distinct auditory experiences stemming from their respective material choices.
Despite the contrasting materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Cliff and TTC Neptune, both can achieve a complementary sound profile for different user preferences. Although they differ in specific materials—stiff polycarbonate vs. soft nylon in the Cliff and POM in the Neptune—the cumulative effect nonetheless presents nuanced sound characteristics. With the Cliff delivering a crisp response during key release and the Neptune offering a muted depth upon bottoming out, savvy keyboard enthusiasts can select their desired switch based on how they value the separation of sound dynamics contributed by the unique materials. Ultimately, the interplay of these different housing compositions showcases how variations in material can yield varied tactile and auditory experiences in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we see some distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer touch during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Neptune switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. While both switches are classified as light, the Cliff is the lighter of the two, providing a gentler push, while the Neptune offers a more resistant push, making it ideal for those who like a firmer keystroke. Overall, if you're seeking a switch that enables longer typing sessions with less strain, the Bsun Cliff is the preferable option, whereas the TTC Neptune could be better suited for users who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Cliff switch offers a shorter response time, which may be more appealing to gamers who prefer quicker actuation for better performance. Conversely, the Neptune's travel distance provides a greater depth, which some users find more satisfying as it delivers a more pronounced tactile feedback during use. Ultimately, if you favor a more responsive feel, the Bsun Cliff is the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may lean towards the TTC Neptune due to its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a crisp acoustic profile that is likely to excite typists who enjoy auditory feedback. While specific details about its sound signature were not provided, it can be inferred that the tactile bump provides a pronounced auditory cue with each keystroke, making it engaging for those who appreciate a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience. In contrast, the TTC Neptune linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound signature. This switch produces a softer noise that is less intrusive, making it an excellent option in quieter environments. The thocky quality adds a deep richness to the sound, offering a satisfying experience for users who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Cliff switch is recognized for its medium tactility, which contributes to a balanced experience that is neither overly soft nor excessively firm, catering to a broad range of typists. However, details on the tactile sensation of the Cliff remain unspecified. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune is designed with an innovative internal structure that allows for a frictionless and buttery keystroke experience, resembling the sensation of chewing mochi or tapioca pearls. This results in a unique typing experience that is smooth and effortless, making it appealing for users who favor fluidity in their keystrokes. The Neptune’s combination of springy resistance and a mildly gummy feel differentiates it from more traditional switches, providing a tactile satisfaction that blends different qualities.
Ultimately, the Bsun Cliff and TTC Neptune switches cater to differing preferences in both sound and feel. The Cliff promises an engaging auditory experience with a crisp and satisfying quality, ideal for typewriters seeking tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Neptune excels in its muted thockiness and frictionless glide, providing a smooth, effortless typing experience that’s perfect for users who seek a quieter and more refined interaction. In making a choice between these two switches, it really comes down to personal preference regarding sound dynamics and typing sensations: while both will deliver enjoyable results, they offer distinctly different experiences tailored to various typing styles and environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you favor a tactile feel with a bit of audible feedback, the Cliff would be a great choice; its medium tactility and crisp sound signature will provide you with not only a satisfying tactile bump but also a lively typing experience, which can enhance your engagement during both gaming and typist tasks. Conversely, if you prefer a typing experience that emphasizes smoothness and subtlety, the TTC Neptune would be ideal for you. With its frictionless glide and thocky, muted sound, the Neptune offers a gentler, quieter experience that is particularly well-suited for environments where minimal noise is desired, while still providing a springy sensation. In summary, choose the Cliff for a tactile and stimulating typing experience or the Neptune for a smoother, more refined feel; either way, both switches cater to different aspects of what makes typing enjoyable.
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