SP-Star Meteor White vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. The Meteor White is a gentle linear switch that offers easy key presses and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. It is best suited for those who prefer a neutral, mild typing experience with a polished feel. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, almost frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance that is reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch offers a buttery, gummy feel with a low-pitched, muted sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. 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
57g
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
Nylon
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
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White and the TTC Neptune both utilize different materials for their top and bottom switch housings, resulting in distinctive sound profiles. The Meteor White features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Neptune incorporates a POM top housing, producing a unique, deeper sound that is relatively more muted compared to nylon. The difference in top housing material contributes significantly to the overall sound experience of each switch, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound, while POM offers a more subdued yet pleasing tone.
While the top housings of the Meteor White and Neptune switches differ in material and sound profile, their bottom housings also play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The Meteor White's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. On the other hand, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic composition. This distinction in bottom housing material further enhances the tactile feedback and sound produced when pressing down on the keys, offering users a varied typing experience based on the switch's construction.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the SP-Star Meteor White and the TTC Neptune, both switches deliver distinct and enjoyable sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Meteor White's nylon top housing creates a deep and fuller sound, the Neptune's POM top housing offers a unique, more muted tone. Similarly, the contrasting bottom housings, with nylon for the Meteor White and polycarbonate for the Neptune, further enhance the typing experience by shaping the sound and feel of each key press. Overall, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound signature and tactile response of mechanical keyboards, offering users a diverse range of options to suit their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is medium-light, while the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. The actuation force of the Meteor White is unknown, while the Neptune requires 41 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Neptune is lighter both in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Meteor White. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neptune would be the better option. However, for individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel, the Meteor White may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Meteor White has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Neptune's 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Meteor White offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Neptune's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the tactile experience desired while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a low-pitched and muted sound experience, creating a more refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Meteor White having a more moderate sound profile overall. For individuals looking for a deep, satisfying thocky sound, the Meteor White may be the preferred choice, while those seeking a quieter and more bass-heavy typing experience may lean towards the Neptune.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel suitable for a wide range of users. Conversely, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing sensation, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke experience with minimal resistance. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and satisfying typing feel, with the Meteor White leaning towards a more refined and polished finish while the Neptune offers a seamless and uniform typing sensation reminiscent of chewy delights.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor White provides a gentler and softer typing experience with a more moderate sound profile, the Neptune stands out with its ultralight feel, smooth glide, and unique springy resistance. Both switches offer a unique typing experience that can cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a softer, thocky sound or a quieter, frictionless feel. Ultimately, choosing between the Meteor White and the Neptune will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a soft and gentle typing sensation with a subtle sound profile, the Meteor White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a unique "matte" feel with a smooth and frictionless glide, paired with a muted and refined sound signature, the Neptune could be the switch that enhances your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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