Gateron Ink Red vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ink Red, with its lower actuation force and smooth feel, is ideal for those with a lighter typing style who prefer a crisp and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that offers a smooth glide and springy resistance, creating a textured pleasure with every keystroke. While the Ink Red is categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Neptune is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, muted, neutral, polished, subdued, and thocky. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing that is known for its thin and higher-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the TTC Neptune uses a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both bring unique characteristics to the switches, the INK blend top housing offers a sharper sound compared to the more pleasing and muted sound of the POM top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Red utilizes the same proprietary INK blend material which contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune features a polycarbonate bottom housing that provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both bottom housings impact the overall sound profile of the switches, the polycarbonate material in the Neptune offers a more clear and resonant sound compared to the INK blend material used in the Ink Red.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Neptune play a significant role in the sound profiles of these switches. While the INK blend material in the Ink Red creates a thin and clacky sound, the POM and polycarbonate materials in the Neptune result in a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is the lighter option of the two. The Ink Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Neptune has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, giving it a lighter typing experience overall. While the Ink Red offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier force required, the Neptune provides a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Ink Red switch offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red switch offers a neutral profile with a crispy and clacky sound, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch is characterized by a low-pitched and muted sound, creating a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. The Ink Red may appeal to those who enjoy a bit of chirp in their keyboard sound, while the Neptune offers a more subdued and thocky sound that enhances the overall typing ambiance.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery and frictionless feel, akin to bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches fall into the category of mild switches, providing a gentle and approachable typing sensation that caters to a wide range of users.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red and TTC Neptune switches each offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Ink Red excels in providing a crisp and clacky sound with a silky smooth feel, the Neptune stands out with its low-pitched and muted sound profile paired with a buttery and frictionless typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or overall typing experience, both switches have their own strengths that can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing session. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing feel for the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a crispy, clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red may be your best choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique "matte" feel with a springy resistance and a muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune could be the ideal option for you. The Ink Red is more neutral and chirpy in sound, while the Neptune offers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound experience. In terms of feel, the Ink Red is silky and polished, while the Neptune is buttery, gummy, and frictionless. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing habits and desired typing experience.