Dareu Holly vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the tactile Dareu Holly switch to the linear TTC Neptune switch, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Holly offers a unique sound signature with its chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience perfect for those who appreciate a bit of texture and feedback in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that creates a smooth and frictionless glide, reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch is ideal for those seeking a buttery and subdued typing experience with a muted sound signature. 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
50g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and TTC Neptune both utilize different materials for their top and bottom switch housings, leading to distinct sound profiles for each. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, ideal for users seeking a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the Neptune's POM top housing offers a more muted and deeper sound, appealing to those looking for a softer typing experience. While both materials provide different sound profiles, the choice between polycarbonate and POM ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of bottom housings, the Holly features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune. The Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and clearer sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both materials serve their purpose well, users may prefer the deeper sound of nylon or the crisper sound of polycarbonate based on their personal preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Holly and TTC Neptune ultimately comes down to individual preferences in sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Holly provides a sharper sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Neptune offers a deeper and muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Holly produces a fuller sound, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune provides a sharper and clearer sound. Ultimately, users should consider their preferred typing experience, whether they prioritize a crisp sound or a deeper tone, when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Holly has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Neptune has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Holly's force is unknown, whereas the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier of the two switches. This means that the Holly provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Neptune. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between the two switches, as a lighter actuation force can be beneficial for extended typing sessions, while a heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial typing feel. In this case, the Holly would be more suitable for those who prefer a heavier typing experience, while the Neptune would be better for those looking for a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we can see that the Holly has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Neptune's 3.8 mm. Both fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Holly being on the longer side and the Neptune being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Neptune for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Holly. In general, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a shorter, snappier keypress or a longer, more deliberate one. Ultimately, both switches offer a different tactile experience suited to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinctive typing experience that stands out from the rest. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a low-pitched and muted sound profile, ensuring a refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and user preferences. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on whether you prefer a more unique and pronounced sound (Holly) or a smoother and quieter typing experience (Neptune).
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is described as providing a buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth, effortless, and almost springy sensation when typing with these switches. In comparison, the Dareu Holly tactile switch's feel descriptors are currently unknown. However, given the balanced actuation force and unique sound profile of the Holly switch, it is likely to offer a tactile and responsive typing experience that complements its auditory qualities.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Holly switch stands out for its distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, while the Neptune switch excels in providing a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a muted sound profile. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, selecting either of these switches will result in a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the TTC Neptune linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you are looking for a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Holly may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience with a springy resistance that feels like mochi or tapioca pearls, along with a muted sound profile for refined and unobtrusive typing, then the Neptune might be more to your liking. Consider how the sound and feel descriptions align with your preferences and typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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