HMX Gravel vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Gravel and the TTC Neptune Linear switches stand out for their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who prioritize a responsive and effortless typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, the Gravel strikes a balance between ease of use and satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune brings a different sensation to the table, boasting an innovative internal design that combines a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance that evokes the delightful chewiness of mochi. Known for its ultralight weight, the Neptune offers swift typing with a muted, thocky sound that many users find appealing. While the Grave excels in smooth responsiveness, the Neptune offers a unique texture and auditory 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
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX Gravel and TTC Neptune switches present a contrasting profile that influences their auditory characteristics significantly. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly and crisply. This property is attributed to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which enhances the clarity of the sound produced. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for incorporating RGB lighting, allowing the light to shine through beautifully and adding an aesthetic dimension to the switch. On the other hand, the Neptune employs a POM top housing that has a markedly different effect. POM, while offering a unique and pleasing auditory experience, tends to produce a deeper and relatively muted sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of top housing material can significantly shape the acoustic qualities of each switch.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, further differences emerge. The Gravel utilizes a nylon bottom housing that enriches the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs sound waves more effectively, leading to a rounder and duller auditory experience. In contrast, the Neptune's bottom housing is made from polycarbonate, mirroring the properties of its top housing. This creates a harmonious blend, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile that resonates with clarity. The polycarbonate bottom housing complements the acoustic characteristics of the top, enhancing that brighter sound, which stands in stark contrast to the Gravel's nylon, where the softer material creates a more subdued typing experience.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the HMX Gravel and the TTC Neptune result in distinct sound profiles that cater to varying preferences. The Gravel's combination of polycarbonate and nylon produces a clearer and more resonant sound, ideal for those who favor a high-pitched auditory experience. Conversely, the Neptune’s configuration, with varying top and bottom materials of POM and polycarbonate respectively, delivers a more muted yet pleasing acoustic. If one were to use similar materials for both the bottom and top, like each switch does in part, they could expect to achieve a more coherent sound signature, allowing for a more unified typing feel and acoustic output. This interplay of materials illustrates how the choice of housing can tailor the user experience, shaping both sound and aesthetic qualities in distinct ways.
Weight
The HMX Gravel and TTC Neptune linear switches exhibit some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches are categorized as light, with the Gravel having an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Neptune features a slightly lighter actuation force of 41 grams with the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to bottom out, but the Neptune is easier to press down initially, providing a lighter touch for the typist or gamer. Consequently, the Gravel is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch for prolonged use, the Neptune may be more suitable, whereas the Gravel caters better to those who appreciate a bit more feedback from the actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Gravel the shorter option, ideal for users who prioritize rapid response times, such as gamers. In contrast, the Neptune's longer distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing keys, providing a deeper, more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth, with the Gravel catering to those seeking a quicker actuation and the Neptune appealing to those who enjoy a more traditional, hearty keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 HMX Gravel switches present an overall profile that can be characterized as mellow and subdued, likely leaning towards a neutral sound when compared to others in the mechanical keyboard realm. This makes them versatile, suitable for both casual and professional environments without drawing unnecessary attention. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switches are described as low-pitched, muted, and thocky, offering a deeper and bass-heavy sound signature reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" upon keystroke. Their subdued nature allows for a noise-friendly typing experience, though they are likely to provide more auditory satisfaction compared to the Gravel depending on the user's preference.
Regarding feel, the HMX Gravel switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing characteristics, providing a medium-light actuation force that leans lightly and offers an effortless typing experience. This smoothness makes for a pleasant typing sensation that encourages fluidity and speed. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch boasts a unique structure that facilitates an almost frictionless glide coupled with a springy resistance likened to the feel of chewy mochi. This results in an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience that minimizes friction throughout the key press, which, along with its mild characteristics, caters to a broad range of user preferences.
When considering both the HMX Gravel and TTC Neptune switches, users can expect a blend of smoothness and ease of use across the board. While the Gravel focuses more on a refined and polished feel, the Neptune introduces a playful, chewy sensation that may appeal to those looking for a unique typing experience. Sound-wise, the Neptune's low-pitched thocky signature provides a more auditory feedback compared to the Gravel's more neutral and subdued profile, appealing to different preferences in keyboard noise levels. Ultimately, choosing between the two will boil down to whether you prefer a more traditional smooth typing experience or a unique, textured keystroke combined with deeper auditory feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Gravel and the TTC Neptune linear switches, consider what typing experience you value most. If you seek a classic, refined feel with exceptional smoothness and a high degree of responsiveness, the Gravel switch is an excellent choice. Its light actuation and overall polished design offer a traditional yet satisfying typing experience that caters well to those who prioritize precision and feedback in their keystrokes. Conversely, if you're drawn to a more innovative design with a unique, almost frictionless glide and a chewy, springy resistance, the Neptune stands out as the preferred option. This switch not only delivers a delightful tactile sensation but also provides a thocky, muted sound signature that enhances the auditory experience as you type. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preference for feel and sound; pick the Gravel for a classic smooth experience or the Neptune for a modern, buoyant typing sensation.
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