TTC Flaming Pink vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Neptune, both linear switches designed to enhance your typing experience. The Flaming Pink is celebrated for its smooth, responsive feel and satisfying bottom-out sound, making it an excellent choice for both gaming enthusiasts and everyday typists alike. Its bright yet subdued auditory profile strikes a balance between being pleasantly audible and not overly distracting. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune offers an innovative internal structure that provides an incredibly smooth, almost frictionless typing experience coupled with a springy resistance that mimics the delightful chewiness of mochi or tapioca pearls. This unique quality, combined with its ultralight weight, allows for quick, effortless keystrokes and a subtle, thocky sound signature that many users find appealing. While both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, they share a commitment to delivering premium performance. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
POM
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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and TTC Neptune, distinct differences emerge in their respective sound profiles and physical qualities. The Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance in the audio feedback of the switch. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic advantage to the switch. In contrast, the Neptune utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a unique, deeper, and more muted sound profile. This characterization underscores the varied auditory experiences each switch can provide, with the Flaming Pink being more vibrant and the Neptune leaning toward a richer, more subdued auditory presence.
The bottom housings of the TTC Flaming Pink and TTC Neptune amplify the differences noted in their top materials. The Flaming Pink embraces nylon for its bottom housing, a material recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This choice results in a duller and rounder auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Neptune opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the crisp sound profile found in the Flaming Pink’s top. This design implies that while the Neptune has the deeper and more muted tonality from its POM top, the polycarbonate bottom contributes a sharper response when bottoming out. Thus, the interactions between the top and bottom housings in each switch result in distinct yet complementary auditory outputs.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches delivers different tactile and auditory experiences during usage. While the TTC Flaming Pink employs a contrast between the sharper, more resonant qualities of polycarbonate in the top housing and the deeper sounds produced by nylon in the bottom housing, the TTC Neptune presents a unique merging of its materials. In each case, the top housing influences the return sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out experience. Collectively, these characteristics suggest that while the Flaming Pink and Neptune employ different materials that result in distinct sound profiles, they both provide satisfying typing experiences with their respective blends of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, both exhibit light characteristics, but with slight differences in actuation force. The Flaming Pink requires an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Neptune is slightly lighter at 41 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they share a similar resistance when pressed all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Neptune provides a marginally easier keystroke action. Conversely, users who appreciate a more robust typing experience might find both switches sufficient, as they both feature a consistent bottom out force, creating an overall substantial feel during use.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Pink linear 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 0.2 mm difference means that the Flaming Pink offers a shorter and potentially more responsive experience, which may appeal to gamers seeking rapid key presses for quick response times. On the other hand, the Neptune, with its longer travel distance, might provide a more substantial feel when pressed, catering to users who prefer deeper keystrokes. Ultimately, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Flaming Pink would be the better choice, whereas if you favor a fuller typing experience, the Neptune would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Flaming Pink and TTC Neptune switches, the Flaming Pink produces a bright yet not overly loud sound profile that's both satisfying and engaging for the user. This switch results in a commendable bottom-out sound that many find enjoyable during both gaming and typing sessions. In contrast, the Neptune offers a more muted and thocky sound signature. The sound is characterized as low-pitched and more bass-heavy, providing a deeper, rich thud when pressed. This muted quality tends to minimize the mechanical clacking often associated with keyboard use, making it more suitable for quiet environments or less disruptive use.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Pink is known for its smooth and responsive typing experience that balances well between the tactile feedback desired for gaming and the fluidity appreciated during daily typing tasks. Meanwhile, the TTC Neptune focuses on luxurious switch characteristics, described as buttery and frictionless for a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. The unique gummy sensation when bottoming out adds to this switch's appeal, creating a distinctive typing experience that can feel almost like pressing into a trampoline. This combination of springy resistance and smoothness distinguishes the Neptune, making it feel refreshingly light and responsive.
In conclusion, both the Flaming Pink and Neptune switches offer their unique attributes tailored to enhancing the typing experience. The Flaming Pink emphasizes clarity of sound and smooth operation, making it versatile for various activities, whereas the Neptune excels in providing a more subdued auditory feedback along with a lavishly smooth typing experience. Ultimately, keyboard enthusiasts looking for either vibrant or muted sound profiles will find satisfaction with both switches, although their different tactile responses cater to varying preferences, ensuring a personalized typing experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Neptune linear switches, consider what experience you prioritize in your typing or gaming sessions. If you value a smooth and responsive feel along with a satisfying auditory feedback, the Flaming Pink is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for both gaming and everyday tasks due to its light bottom-out force and a sound profile that is bright yet not overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more unique tactile sensation combined with a low-pitched, thocky sound, the Neptune could be the better option for you. Its innovative internal structure provides a frictionless glide with a chewy feel, making typing feel effortlessly enjoyable. Additionally, the muted character of the Neptune makes it a great choice if you need a quieter switch for a shared workspace or gaming setup. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preference for sound and feel; whether favoring the more traditional responsiveness of the Flaming Pink or the innovative, thocky experience of the Neptune, you’ll find both switches bring their unique strengths to your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
