Gateron Glory Red vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, both the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Neptune offer unique benefits that cater to different user preferences. The Gateron Glory Red switches are celebrated for their smooth keystroke and pleasant travel distance, which ensure a satisfying typing experience, especially for users who favor light linear switches. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune ingeniously combines a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance that echoes the delightful feel of chewy mochi, making it perfect for those who appreciate a bit of playful texture in their key presses. Furthermore, the Neptune’s muted sound profile adds to its appeal by providing a more subdued and thocky auditory experience. Both switches have their merits; the Glory Red is ideal for fast-paced typists who enjoy a lightweight feel, while the Neptune caters to those seeking a more textured and unique tactile journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Neptune, notable differences emerge that influence the overall sound profiles and tactile responses of each switch. The Gateron Glory Red utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, a classic material known for its softer composition. This softness allows for a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a sound profile that feels round and muted, along with a more cushioned typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Neptune features a POM top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing. The POM material contributes a unique and satisfying sound that remains deeper and more muted, while the polycarbonate bottom housing lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory response due to its stiffer nature.
The differences between the nylon and polycarbonate housing materials also manifest in the tactile feedback users receive. For the Gateron Glory Red, the consistent use of nylon throughout provides a seamless and cohesive sound experience, with the top and bottom housings working in tandem to deliver a predominantly warm and softer sound profile. This creates an even feel and sound upon actuation and bottoming out, making it ideal for users who prefer a smoother typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Neptune, with its contrasting POM and polycarbonate materials, illustrates a split in sound characteristics: the top housing focuses on creating a muted sound that’s more enjoyable upon release, while the polycarbonate bottom housing sharpens the bottom-out sound. This distinction means users might feel a more pronounced difference between pressing down and releasing a key on the Neptune, offering an interesting dynamic that some may prefer for gaming or fast typing.
In summary, while both the Gateron Glory Red and TTC Neptune can provide satisfying typing experiences, their differing housing materials distinctly influence their performances. The Glory Red, with its all-nylon construction, offers a consistent and warm sound profile, making it a favorite among those who prioritize a rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the Neptune presents a unique interaction between softer POM and more resonant polycarbonate, allowing users to experience a range of auditory feedback depending on whether they are pressing or releasing a key. Ultimately, users seeking specific sound profiles and tactile responses can find satisfaction with either switch, as the material characteristics change the dynamics of typing in significant, yet enjoyable, ways.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Glory Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Neptune is slightly lighter at 41 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Neptune more comfortable. However, since the bottom out force of the Glory Red switch is unknown, we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. The Neptune does have a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a firmer resistance when pressing the switch all the way down. This heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the Gateron Glory Red provides a more moderate actuation feel, while the TTC Neptune offers a lighter actuation with a heavier bottom out force, catering to different user preferences in keyboard feel and performance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Gateron Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Neptune offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that for users seeking a more responsive feel, the Glory Red might be the preferable option, as its shorter travel distance could allow for quicker actuation during use. On the other hand, the Neptune's longer travel distance may appeal to those who favor a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, providing a different tactile experience that some users find more comfortable. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Gateron Glory Red is the shorter option, and the TTC Neptune is the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red switch is not explicitly characterized, making it hard to directly compare its auditory signature to that of the TTC Neptune. However, the Neptune switch is known for its low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile. The richness of the thocky sound, reminiscent of a deep thud, contrasts with the typical higher-pitched sounds often produced by mechanical switches, suggesting that those who prefer a more resonant and satisfying auditory experience may gravitate towards the Neptune. Given this, if noise levels are a concern, the muted quality of the Neptune makes it a preferable option for quieter environments.
When considering feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and pleasant travel distance, though no specific descriptors are provided. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune boasts a unique array of tactile sensations, including buttery smoothness, gummy resilience, frictionless movement, and a polished feel. These qualities indicate that typing on the Neptune could be an exceptionally enjoyable experience, offering an effortless glide while also providing unique feedback reminiscent of diving into a fluffy cushion or gummy treat. This suggests that users looking for a switch that balances smoothness with a bit of resistance may favor the Neptune for its nuanced experience.
In summary, while the Gateron Glory Red promises a smooth and pleasant typing experience, the TTC Neptune shines with a more layered tactile feedback and a unique sound profile. Both switches cater to users looking for enjoyable keystrokes, but the Neptune offers additional sound and feel characteristics that provide a distinctively rich experience. If you're someone who values a deeper sound and an interesting tactile experience, the Neptune may be the more appealing choice, while the Glory Red still delivers a solid performance for a smoother typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Neptune linear switches largely depends on your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a very light and smooth keystroke with an enjoyable travel distance, the Glory Red may be the switch for you, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed typing experience where effort is minimized. However, if you are drawn to a switch that offers a unique sensation akin to springy mochi, has a thocky sound signature, and balances a light yet spring-resistant feel, then the TTC Neptune is likely your go-to option. The Neptune’s muted sound profile and frictionless glide make it ideal for those who type swiftly and want a more subdued auditory experience, suitable for shared or quieter environments. Ultimately, consider how you plan to use your keyboard—if it's for prolonged typing sessions or gaming where ease is key, lean toward the Glory Red; if you appreciate nuanced feedback and a rich sound experience, the Neptune will serve you well.
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