TTC Flame Red vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they each offer unique features and characteristics. The Flame Red is best known for its stunning light diffuser, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, categorizing it as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that merges a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance, akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This unique combination gives the Neptune an unparalleled "matte" feel, ensuring swift and effortless typing with a muted sound signature, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Subdued', and 'Thocky'. 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
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Neptune, we can see that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Flame Red utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Neptune features a POM top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing. The POM top housing results in a unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, while the polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
One key difference between the Flame Red and Neptune is the sound profile they produce due to their housing materials. The Flame Red's nylon top and bottom housings provide a duller and rounder sound, ideal for those who prefer a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the Neptune's combination of POM and polycarbonate housings creates a more unique sound with deeper tones from the POM top housing and sharper, crisper sounds from the polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in sound profile showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Although the housing materials of the Flame Red and Neptune differ, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their respective material choices. The nylon housing of the Flame Red creates a classic, mellow sound profile, while the POM and polycarbonate housings of the Neptune produce a more distinct and varied sound. Despite these differences, both switches exhibit how the combination of top and bottom housing materials can influence the sound and feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard. Whether you prefer the deeper, fuller sound of nylon or the sharp, crisp tones of polycarbonate, both the Flame Red and Neptune provide high-quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Flame Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams while the Neptune requires 50 grams. This makes the Flame Red switch slightly heavier overall compared to the Neptune switch. The Flame Red provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Neptune offers a lighter touch. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Flame Red may be the better option, while those who enjoy a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Neptune switch. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, so regardless of the slight differences in weight, users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of comparison, the Flame Red offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on a key compared to the Neptune. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a bit more travel distance, the Flame Red may appeal more. However, for those who prioritize faster response times and a shorter travel distance, the Neptune may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Flame Red provides a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
In terms of sound, the Flame Red switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Neptune switch provides a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound that is more bass-heavy and quieter, creating a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and settings, with the Flame Reds being more versatile and the Neptunes offering a unique, mellow sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, offering a gentle and refined feel. In contrast, the Neptune switch offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless sensation that is seamless, effortless, and almost trampoline-like when bottoming out. Both switches deliver smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, with the Flames Reds being more approachable and the Neptunes providing a distinct, textured pleasure with each keystroke.
Overall, the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Reds are characterized by a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, optimal for backlit keyboards and providing a more neutral and versatile typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptunes boast an innovative internal structure that merges a smooth glide with springy resistance, resulting in a matte feel and muted sound signature that enhances the typing pleasure. Depending on personal preferences and keyboard setup, users can choose between the Flame Reds for a more traditional experience or the Neptunes for a distinct and textured typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and satisfaction for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the unique features and qualities of each. If you prioritize a visually stunning switch with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound for your backlit RGB keyboard, the Flame Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with an innovative internal structure, offering a matte feel with a smooth, frictionless glide and a springy resistance akin to chewy delights, the Neptune is your best bet. Ultimately, the Flame Red is suitable for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Neptune caters to individuals looking for an ultralight switch with a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound signature. Whether you value a polished, mild typing experience or a buttery, gummy sensation, make your choice based on your preferences and typing style.
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