Bsun Light Sakura vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Neptune offers two compelling options for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Bsun Light Sakura excels in providing a silent and ultra-light touch, making it an excellent choice for those who spend long hours typing and prefer a more discreet sound profile, suitable for shared workspaces. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune brings a unique tactile quality to the table with its innovative internal structure, delivering a smooth and almost frictionless glide complemented by a springy resistance that many liken to the experience of chewing mochi or tapioca pearls. While the Neptune offers a subdued yet thocky sound signature that caters to those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback without being overly loud, the Light Sakura focuses on comfort and stealth for a fatigue-reducing typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and environments, making each a viable contender depending on your specific needs. 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
37g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Neptune, one finds a notable distinction between the types of materials used for the top housings. The Light Sakura employs a polycarbonate top housing that is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's rigidity and translucency, which not only contributes to its aesthetic appeal—allowing RGB lighting to shine through—but also promotes a clear and resonant sound when the keys are activated. In contrast, the TTC Neptune opts for a POM top housing, which is characterized by a deeper and more muted sound profile. While polycarbonate heightens brightness and clarity, the Neptune’s POM construction produces a softer, more subdued auditory experience, demonstrating how material choice can significantly affect the tactile feedback and acoustic qualities of keyboard switches.
The bottom housings of the two switches share a commonality, both using polycarbonate materials. This shared use leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile for both switches when pressing the keys down. Since the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, users of both switches will experience similar acoustic characteristics in that aspect, regardless of the differences in their top housings. The identity formed by polycarbonate's properties in the bottom section allows for a common auditory experience, creating a cohesive sound when activating the switch.
Ultimately, the duality of the housing materials between the top and the bottom across the Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Neptune illustrates the nuanced interplay between sound and feel. While the Light Sakura's polycarbonate top and bottom housings work together to create an overall bright and resonant auditory experience, the Neptune's POM top and polycarbonate bottom compromise sound clarity for a muted, deeper profile—a fascinating contrast in how materials can lead to varied tactile and auditory results. Users will find unique listening experiences with each switch while benefiting from shared characteristics in the bottom housing, reaffirming the importance of material composition in keyboard design.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch both offer relatively light actuation forces, but they differ in their specific measurements. The Light Sakura has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the Neptune features a slightly heavier actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means that while both switches are considered light, the Light Sakura is better suited for users looking for a lighter feel that allows for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the Neptune's heavier forces may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This contrast in actuation and bottom out forces allows users to make an informed choice based on their personal preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you are looking for a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Light Sakura might be more appealing as it allows for quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Neptune, with its 3.8 mm travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel, which some users prefer for a deeper and more satisfying keystroke. Overall, if you value responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the Light Sakura could be the better choice, whereas the Neptune might suit those who appreciate a bit more depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Light Sakura switch is characterized by its quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for those in office settings or shared spaces. This switch’s design minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, allowing for a discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune presents a more complex auditory signature; it is described as muted and thocky, providing a low-pitched, rich sound that offers a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. While the Light Sakura leans towards silence and subtlety, the Neptune balances quietness with a pleasing and resonant tone, making it suited for those who enjoy an audible but not disruptive sound.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Light Sakura excels with an ultra-light touch, ideally suited for extended typing without causing fatigue. This gentle experience allows for long sessions of typing with minimal discomfort. Contrastingly, the TTC Neptune switch features an innovative internal structure that provides a buttery, frictionless glide alongside a springy resistance compared to chewy mochi. The tactile experience of the Neptune can feel dynamic and fun, offering a unique sensation of bottoming out that can be likened to landing on soft, yielding surfaces. While the Light Sakura focuses on providing a gentle and fatigue-reducing experience, the Neptune aims for a more engaging and enjoyable keystroke.
Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preferences. The Bsun Light Sakura is optimal for users who prioritize silent, comfortable typing, making it perfect for shared environments. The TTC Neptune, while also ultralight, delivers an enjoyable tactile feedback with its thocky sound and smooth travel, appealing to those who appreciate a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for an overall quiet typing experience, you can expect both switches to perform well in their domains, catering to different styles but ensuring that users experience comfort and satisfaction with each press.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Neptune linear switches largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you often find yourself in shared workspaces or environments where noise is a concern, the Light Sakura with its ultra-light feel and silent operation would be ideal for you. It's perfect for long typing sessions, significantly reducing fatigue while keeping distractions at bay. On the other hand, if you prioritize an engaging typing experience with a more tactile feedback, the Neptune is the way to go. Its unique blend of buttery smoothness and thocky sound signature offers a satisfying auditory and tactile pleasure that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment. Additionally, if you appreciate a slightly springy resistance reminiscent of chewy textures, then the Neptune’s innovative design might resonate more with you. Ultimately, your choice will rest on whether you favor a quieter, fatigue-reducing switch for long hours or a more flavorful and responsive typing experience.
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