Gateron Ink Yellow vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Yellow is known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop keyboard and a standard mechanical keyboard. With its smoothness and pleasant clackiness, this switch is ideal for users looking for a 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished' feel. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, offering a harmonious blend of smooth, almost frictionless glide and springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This results in a distinct "matte" feel and a low-pitched, muted sound signature, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Subdued', and 'Thocky'. 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
60g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Yellow and TTC Neptune both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary blend that creates a clacky, high-pitched sound, while the Neptune uses POM material for a deeper, more muted sound. This means that the Ink Yellow may offer a more sharp and pointed typing experience, while the Neptune provides a smoother and quieter typing experience. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Yellow and Neptune differ once again. The Ink Yellow's bottom housing shares the same proprietary blend as the top, creating a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Neptune uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the two switches will be different, with the Ink Yellow potentially feeling softer and the Neptune feeling more pronounced.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and TTC Neptune differ, both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their proprietary blends and materials. In terms of sound when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing will have more of an impact, with the Ink Yellow potentially offering a more uniform sound due to its consistent material throughout. When letting go of a key, the top housing of each switch will play a larger role in the sound produced. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Yellow has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams, making it a heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Yellow is 67 grams, whereas the Neptune bottoms out at 50 grams, further emphasizing the lighter feel of the Neptune switch. For individuals who enjoy a lighter typing experience, the Neptune switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a heavier touch may opt for the Gateron Ink Yellow switch for a more pronounced push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience, with the Neptune offering a lighter touch and the Ink Yellow providing a heavier one.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Neptune switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Ink Yellow switch. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times, the small difference of 0.3 mm may not be noticeable to most users. Ultimately, whether you choose the switch with the shorter or longer travel distance will depend on your personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a neutral and clacky sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch presents a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience. While the Ink Yellow delivers a standard yet satisfying sound, the Neptune offers a more refined and subtle auditory ambiance, ensuring a quieter typing atmosphere overall.
As for feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the contrary, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance or friction. Both switches offer a comfortable and pleasing typing experience, with the Neptune emphasizing a more fluid and uniform sensation compared to the Ink Yellow.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct but satisfying typing experiences. While the Ink Yellow provides a clacky sound and polished feel, suitable for those seeking a standard yet smooth typing experience, the Neptune stands out with its muted sound and buttery, gummy feel, offering a more innovative and frictionless typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches deliver reliable performance and comfort for typing enthusiasts. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Ink Yellow or the TTC Neptune, you can expect similar levels of quality and performance in your typing endeavors.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Ink Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. It offers a smooth and clacky feel, making each keystroke pleasant. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique typing experience characterized by a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights, the Neptune is worth considering. Its ultralight feel ensures swift and effortless typing with a subdued sound signature. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
