TTC Honey vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Honey and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Honey switch is known for its smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a deep and pleasant sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a subdued and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune switch stands out for its innovative internal structure that provides a harmonious balance between a smooth glide and springy resistance, akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This gives the Neptune a matte feel, ensuring every keystroke is a textured pleasure. While the Honey switch leans towards a softer and creamy typing feel, the Neptune excels in providing a unique tactile experience with a low-pitched and 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
42g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and TTC Neptune switches differ in their top housing material. The Honey features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Neptune incorporates a POM top housing, which produces a deeper, more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles is significant as it can affect the overall typing experience and user preference. While the Honey's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those who seek a clear and resonant sound, the Neptune's POM top housing caters to individuals looking for a more subdued and unique typing sound.
In terms of bottom housing, both the TTC Honey and TTC Neptune switches utilize polycarbonate. This material is valued for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, contributing to a clear and resonant typing experience. The similarities in the bottom housing material suggest that users can expect consistent sound characteristics in terms of bottom-out sound and feel across both switches. Although the housing material is the same, the overall sound profiles of the switches may still differ due to the contrasting top housing materials.
The choice of top and bottom housing materials in mechanical switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing both the press-down and let-go sound and feel. While the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these distinctions between the housing materials of the TTC Honey and TTC Neptune switches can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch have very similar actuation forces and bottom out forces, with only a 1-gram difference between them. Both switches have a light actuation force, making them ideal for typing for extended periods without causing fatigue. Additionally, both switches have the same bottom out force, providing consistent resistance throughout the keystroke. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Honey or the Neptune switch, you can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and force feedback. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, either of these switches would be a suitable choice.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Honey and TTC Neptune linear switches have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This uniform travel distance ensures consistency in typing experience for users of both switches. Overall, the travel distance of 3.8 mm for both the TTC Honey and TTC Neptune linear switches emphasizes the similarities in their design and functionality, providing users with a familiar typing feel regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 TTC Honey linear switch provides a subdued sound profile, offering a more subtle and dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch boasts a low-pitched and muted sound signature that is more bass-heavy and refined, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The Neptune switch also features a thocky element, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Honey switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to its lubricated factory setup. This results in a buttery and frictionless feel, allowing for effortless keystrokes that glide across the keys with ease. In comparison, the TTC Neptune switch provides a unique matte feel with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. It offers a buttery and gummy sensation, making every keystroke a textured pleasure while maintaining a polished and frictionless typing experience.
Overall, both the TTC Honey and Neptune linear switches deliver exceptional typing experiences, each with its own distinct qualities. While the Honey switch focuses on a smooth and creamy feel paired with a subdued sound profile, the Neptune switch offers a unique matte sensation with a low-pitched and thocky sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches promise a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that align with your preferences. If you value a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile, the Honey switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate an innovative internal structure that offers a harmonious balance between a smooth, frictionless glide and a springy, textured sensation, along with a muted sound signature, the Neptune switch might suit your typing style better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a creamy and polished feel with a subdued sound (Honey) or a buttery and gummy tactile experience with a low-pitched, neutral, and polished sound profile (Neptune). Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best matches your desired typing experience.
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