TTC Gold Red Pro vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, one can see the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Gold Red Pro is known for its versatility, offering a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature. It is polished, thocky, low-pitched, and silky, making it suitable for a variety of uses, from gaming to office work. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience with a unique springy resistance. It is buttery, gummy, and low-pitched, creating a textured pleasure with each keystroke. While both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability, while the Neptune excels in providing a unique and tactile typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Neptune, we can see clear differences in the materials used. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Neptune has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly affect the typing experience for users, with the Gold Red Pro offering a crisper sound and the Neptune providing a more subdued typing experience.
Furthermore, when we look at the bottom housing materials of these switches, we see another point of differentiation. The Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Neptune features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Neptune vary, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red Pro provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Neptune gives a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro offers a fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune contributes to a clearer sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams, making it slightly heavier in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is unknown, while the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Neptune due to its lower actuation force and lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gold Red Pro, although the exact bottom out force is not specified. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and TTC Neptune linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarities between the two switches make them equally suitable for users looking for consistency in their typing experience. The comparable travel distance ensures that whether you're using the Gold Red Pro or Neptune linear switch, you can expect a similar feel and feedback when pressing down on keys. This makes them both reliable options for those seeking a smooth and consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is known for its low-pitched and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a more muted and subdued sound profile, creating a quieter and more refined auditory experience. Both switches fall under the neutral sound category, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. Overall, while the Gold Red Pro leans towards a slightly more pronounced sound, the Neptune excels in providing a more subdued and soft typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gold Red Pro is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance level. In contrast, the Neptune is characterized as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, showcasing an incredibly smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal friction. While both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, the Gold Red Pro focuses on a polished and subtle feel, whereas the Neptune emphasizes a buttery and frictionless sensation. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more refined and understated feel with the Gold Red Pro or a silky and fluid typing experience with the Neptune.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro and TTC Neptune linear switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro excels in providing a balanced and versatile sound profile with a polished and subtle typing feel, making it suitable for a wide range of typing tasks. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out with its muted and buttery sound signature, coupled with a gummy and frictionless typing experience for those who prefer a smoother keystroke. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and comfort, allowing users to tailor their choice based on their specific sound and feel preferences. Additionally, for users seeking similar results in terms of sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preferences and use case scenarios carefully. If you prioritize a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile suitable for various settings, then the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value an innovative internal structure that provides a unique typing sensation with a matte feel and muted sound signature, the Neptune could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a harmonious typing experience with a neutral sound (Gold Red Pro) or a distinctive tactile feel with a muted sound (Neptune). Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
