Durock Medium Tactile vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to your personal preference in typing experience. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and unique jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and frictionless typing experience reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. The Medium Tactile offers a more accented and stepped feel, while the Neptune provides a buttery and gummy sensation. 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
N/A
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Neptune, we can see a clear difference in the type of plastic used for both the top and bottom housings. The Medium Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This distinction in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users. Additionally, the Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and deeper sound, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings of the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Neptune offer different sound characteristics, they both share the use of polycarbonate in at least one of the housings. The polycarbonate top housing in the Medium Tactile provides a clear and resonant sound profile, similar to the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Neptune. This consistency in materials may result in similar sound qualities for users of both switches, regardless of the variation in other housing materials. However, the overall typing experience may still differ due to the unique properties of the other housing materials used in each switch.
With the qualities of the housing materials being split between the top and bottom housings of these switches, users may notice varying impacts on sound and feel depending on which part of the switch they are engaging with. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have a greater effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key. Conversely, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the role of each housing material can help users appreciate the nuances of their typing experience with either the Durock Medium Tactile or the TTC Neptune switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is clear that the Neptune is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 41 grams, while the Medium Tactile has an actuation force of None grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Medium Tactile is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Neptune's 50 grams. The differences in these forces cater to different preferences in typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Neptune for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Medium Tactile for a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile 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 within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Medium Tactile offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Neptune. Gamers may prefer the Neptune for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more robust typing experience may opt for the Medium Tactile switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, while the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a low-pitched and muted sound profile. The Medium Tactile switch may provide a more pronounced sound, while the Neptune switch presents a softer and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, giving it an accented and stepped feel. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a buttery and gummy typing experience, with a smooth and frictionless glide that is reminiscent of a springy resistance found in chewy delights. Both switches offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Medium Tactile switch provides a jelly-like sound signature and a balanced tactility, the Neptune switch features a low-pitched and muted sound profile with a smooth and frictionless glide. Both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, making them suitable options for users looking for a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as typing style and usage.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Neptune switches, your choice will greatly depend on your preferences for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, smooth and frictionless typing experience, and a matte feel with a muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune linear switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired feel when choosing between these two exceptional switches.
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