Gateron Jupiter Red vs. TTC Neptune

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, and both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the TTC Neptune cater to different typing styles and experiences. The Jupiter Red switches are celebrated for their smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, thanks to their single-stage spring design, which delivers a medium-heavy actuation that many users find satisfying for both typing and gaming. Moreover, the high-precision molds used in the Jupiter series provide a polished feel and add softer backlight effects, appealing to those who appreciate a refined aesthetic. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switches offer a unique typing experience characterized by a nearly frictionless glide paired with a chewy, springy resistance that evokes the texture of mochi or tapioca pearls. Their lightweight construction facilitates rapid typing, while their muted, thocky sound signature adds a subtle acoustic dimension that some users may find comforting. Both switches are positioned as excellent choices for enthusiasts, with the Jupiter Reds leaning towards a more consistent performance and the Neptunes favoring a playful, responsive touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

TTC Neptune Linear

$2.80 per 10

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the TTC Neptune switches, one of the most noticeable differences lies in their top housing materials. The Jupiter Red switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the material's inherent stiffness. This characteristic allows it to resonate well, creating a more vibrant auditory experience, particularly appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize sound clarity and brightness, especially when utilizing RGB lighting due to the material's translucence. In contrast, the Neptune's top housing is made from POM (polyoxymethylene), which lends a deeper and more muted sound profile. The unique sound characteristics brought about by the POM contribute to a fuller, more subdued auditory experience, highlighting how different materials can steer the overall performance of keyboard switches.

On the other hand, the bottom housing materials create another layer of contrast between the two switches. The Jupiter Red employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to generate a deeper and rounder sound profile because of its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This combination softens the impact of the sound when bottoming out, enhancing the overall muted experience characteristic to some users. Conversely, the Neptune sports a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to that of its top counterpart. As a stiffer material, polycarbonate contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile from the bottom of the switch as well, making this switch resonate with a higher-pitched sound upon actuation.

Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in defining the overall typing experience and sound profile of these switches. The Jupiter Red delivers a brighter, more resonant output with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, creating a clear auditory experience across both dimensions. Meanwhile, the Neptune, with its contrasting POM top and polycarbonate bottom, yields a deeper, muted sound that can appeal to users seeking a more subtle mechanical feedback. Consequently, even though the Jupiter Red and Neptune share the quality of using polycarbonate in their designs, the blend of materials creates distinct auditory profiles that can cater to differing user preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, one can observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Neptune offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This distinction means that the Neptune is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Jupiter Red will appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel with greater resistance. Consequently, if you moderate your typing intensity and enjoy tactile feedback without straining, the Jupiter Red could offer a satisfying experience; meanwhile, for prolonged use where minimal force is paramount, the Neptune caters perfectly to that preference.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch exhibit differences in their travel distances, with the Jupiter Red measuring 4 mm and the Neptune measuring 3.8 mm. This makes the Jupiter Red the longer travel switch, offering a more substantial depth that many users appreciate for a tactile experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune, with its shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, caters to those who favor quicker response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers looking for efficiency. The contrast between the two highlights a preference for either a more traditional and hearty depth with the Jupiter Red or the snappier feel of the Neptune. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more responsive experience, the Neptune would be ideal, while the Jupiter Red would satisfy those who enjoy the weightiness of a longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the Gateron Jupiter Red and TTC Neptune linear switches, both options emphasize a neutral profile, appealing to a broad range of users. The Jupiter Red offers a moderate sound, adequate for settings whether at home or in an office. In contrast, the Neptune showcases a more nuanced soundscape, boasting low-pitched, muted tones that create a thocky effect when keys are pressed. This unique sound signature combines deep and subdued elements, offering those who enjoy a rich auditory experience a more immersive typing journey. While both sound profiles present a relatively approachable experience, the Neptune’s low-pitched and thocky quality might resonate more with users looking for a deeper, more satisfying auditory feedback.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red stands out with descriptors such as polished, creamy, and silky, which portray a refined and smooth typing experience. This combination ensures a luxurious sensation with reduced friction, making it easy for users to glide their fingers across the keys. Similarly, the Neptune linear switch offers an incredibly smooth experience as well, with attributes like buttery and frictionless that enhance typing comfort. The addition of the "gummy" description indicates a unique tactile feedback, making the act of bottoming out feel springy and pleasurable. Both switches offer a mild feel, appealing to users who prefer a softer touch, yet each presents its distinct character—Jupiter Reds emphasize a plush, seamless glide while the Neptunes bring a playful, springy sensation.

In conclusion, while both the Gateron Jupiter Red and TTC Neptune switches offer a blend of smooth tactile sensations and moderate sound profiles that suit a wide range of users, they do have their distinctive qualities. The Jupiter Red focuses on a creamy and silky glide, ideal for typing with ease in various environments, whereas the Neptune injects a unique thocky sound along with an innovative, gummy feel for those seeking something a bit different. Ultimately, personal preference will guide your choice; both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience, making them solid contenders in the realm of linear switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the TTC Neptune linear switches, your choice should hinge on your specific typing preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force with a more deliberate, polished feel, the Jupiter Red is an excellent choice. Its neutral sound profile and buttery smoothness make it suitable for both home and work environments, providing a balanced experience that suits a variety of users, from beginners to seasoned typists. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force for swift, effortless typing with a unique and muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune might be the better option for you. Its frictionless glide and thocky resonance create a satisfying tactile experience that many users find enjoyable, especially during intense gaming or coding sessions. Ultimately, aligning your switch choice with your typing style and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard will ensure a more satisfying experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

TTC Neptune Linear

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn more