KTT Cream Yellow vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the linear KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, you'll be met with a decision between two unique typing experiences. The Cream Yellow offers a distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out with its smooth, frictionless glide and springy resistance that resembles chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Neptune is known for being 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', and more. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 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 Cream Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the TTC Neptune's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Cream Yellow's translucency due to the polycarbonate material is ideal for RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune's POM top housing offers a unique sound experience with a deeper tone. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Cream Yellow's nylon material brings a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate material provides a clearer and resonant sound. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the duller and rounder sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in their switches. Both materials offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience.
In summary, while the Cream Yellow and Neptune differ in their housing materials, both switches offer a range of sound profiles for users to choose from. The top housing influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Whether one prefers the sharper, crisper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper, more muted sound of POM, both switches provide a tactile and auditory typing experience that caters to various preferences. Ultimately, users can experiment with different housing materials to determine which switch best suits their typing style and sound preferences.
Weight
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Neptune linear switch which has an actuation force of 41 grams, making the Cream Yellow switch heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams of force while the Neptune only needs 50 grams, indicating that the Cream Yellow switch is also heavier when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neptune switch would be more suitable due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. However, for users who prefer a more solid and substantial typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a better option due to its higher forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear 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 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a bit more key travel, the Neptune may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow 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 Cream Yellow switch offers a distinctive clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy tone. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch presents a low-pitched and muted sound profile, providing a more refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. If you prefer a more prominent and percussive sound, the Cream Yellow might be the right choice for you, while the Neptune offers a softer and mellower typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is praised for its bouncy feedback, giving a lively and spring-like sensation when typing. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery and gummy feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke experience reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Whether you prefer a more elastic and rebounding feel like the Cream Yellow or a seamless and frictionless typing experience like the Neptune, both switches provide unique tactile sensations for a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Cream Yellow and TTC Neptune switches differ in their sound and feel qualities, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Cream Yellow excels in delivering a clacky sound and bouncy feel, ideal for those looking for a more tactile and percussive typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Neptune stands out with its low-pitched and muted sound signature, along with a buttery and gummy feel, perfect for users seeking a smoother and more subtle typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter switch with a unique matte feel, smooth typing experience, and muted sound signature, then the Neptune could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer, whether it be a louder, bouncier feel with the Cream Yellow or a smoother, quieter experience with the Neptune.
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