PH Studio Milk Tea vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the PH Studio Milk Tea and the TTC Neptune, both linear switches but offering distinct experiences. The Milk Tea switch from BSUN boasts a unique auditory blend, with a high-pitched sound that is still muted, striking a delicate balance between presence and subtlety. It is designed for prolonged typing sessions with a light bottom-out force of 43.5g, making each keystroke effortless and smooth thanks to the Ly stem material. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that delivers a smooth and frictionless typing experience reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. With an ultralight feel, the Neptune provides swift and effortless typing, with a muted sound signature for a refined ambiance. Each switch offers its own advantages and qualities, catering to different preferences. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and TTC Neptune keyboards are quite similar in terms of their top housing material, which is POM for both. POM housings are known to create a pleasing and unique sound with a deep profile that is relatively muted. This means that users of both keyboards can expect a similar sound experience when typing on them. However, where the two keyboards differ is in their bottom housing material. The Milk Tea features a POM bottom housing, continuing the deep and muted sound profile, while the Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound.
The choice of housing materials in keyboards can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users. While the POM top housing in both the Milk Tea and Neptune keyboards provides a similar sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials leads to contrasting typing experiences. The POM bottom housing in the Milk Tea maintains the pleasing and deep sound profile, resulting in a consistent typing experience throughout. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Neptune offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile, making each key press more distinct and pronounced.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the PH Studio Milk Tea and TTC Neptune keyboards cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. Users who prefer a deeper and more muted sound profile may lean towards the Milk Tea with its POM top and bottom housing. On the other hand, those who enjoy a sharper and crisper sound profile with more distinct key presses may find the Neptune with its POM top and polycarbonate bottom housing more to their liking. Both keyboards offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea is lighter in both aspects. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, while the Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches can be considered light in terms of actuation and bottom out force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The difference in force between the two switches may not be significant enough to impact typing performance greatly, so users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Milk Tea. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, if you prefer a switch with a slightly deeper travel distance, the Neptune may be the better option for you. Overall, both switches offer a similar level of responsiveness but with a slight difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched and muted sound, creating a softer and more subdued typing ambiance. While the Milk Tea switch leans towards a sharper and more pronounced sound, the Neptune switch exudes a more calming and neutral auditory presence. Ultimately, if sound is a significant factor in your switch preference, the Milk Tea will deliver a more vibrant and lively typing experience compared to the Neptune's quieter and more understated sound profile.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Milk Tea switch is designed to provide a polished and silky typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch delivers a buttery and frictionless keystroke sensation, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Milk Tea excelling in its polished finish for a sleek feel, while the Neptune offers a buttery smoothness that enhances typing fluidity. Whether you prefer a more refined and polished tactile experience or a silky smooth and frictionless feel, both switches cater to providing a pleasant and ergonomic typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Tea switch boasts a high-pitched and clacky sound with a polished and silky typing feel, ideal for those seeking a vibrant and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune switch provides a low-pitched and muted sound with a buttery and frictionless keystroke sensation, catering to individuals who value a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch or the TTC Neptune linear switch, it's important to factor in your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched, clacky sound with a polished and silky typing experience, the Milk Tea may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower-pitched, muted sound with a buttery or frictionless feel, the Neptune could be more suited to your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so it's crucial to consider what sound and feel you find most appealing when selecting between the two.
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