Gateron Mini i vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mini i and the TTC Neptune stand out as top contenders in their respective categories. The Gateron Mini i offers a tactile typing experience with a subtle tactility, making it ideal for office environments where a quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune boasts a unique linear feel with a smooth, almost frictionless glide, providing a textured pleasure with every keystroke. The Mini i is best suited for those who prioritize a lightweight and easy-to-press switch with a muted sound profile, while the Neptune caters to individuals looking for an ultralight switch with a matte and polished feel. 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
40g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and TTC Neptune switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Neptune features a POM top housing, known for producing a muted yet pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side. While both materials offer different sound characteristics, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, the Gateron Mini i again utilizes nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate material enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, offering a different typing experience compared to the Mini i's nylon bottom housing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and TTC Neptune switches differ, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their respective sound profiles. The split between the bottom and top housing allows for a balance in the impact of each material on the sound produced when typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Mini i or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Neptune, both switches offer a satisfying and unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we find that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 50 grams. While the Mini i has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams, the difference is negligible and users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. The lighter actuation force of the Mini i may be preferred by those who enjoy typing for extended periods, while the Neptune's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference for actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gateron Mini i has a shorter travel distance compared to the TTC Neptune. The Mini i's 3.4 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Neptune's 3.8 mm travel distance may provide a more substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper feeling when typing or gaming. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Gateron Mini i being the shorter option and the TTC Neptune being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
When comparing the sound of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the TTC Neptune linear switch, the Mini i offers a more neutral sound profile that is fairly muted, providing a satisfying feedback without being too intrusive. On the other hand, the Neptune boasts a low-pitched, muted sound that keeps the auditory ambiance refined and unobtrusive. Both switches provide a quieter typing experience, with the Mini i leaning towards a more neutral tone and the Neptune offering a deeper, bass-heavy sound. Overall, whether you prefer a more neutral sound or a low-pitched, muted tone, both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience with minimal noise.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, offering a gentle resistance and a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, providing a smooth, fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance or friction. While the Mini i focuses on a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the Neptune excels in providing a frictionless, polished typing experience. Whether you prefer a bouncy, easy-to-press feel or a buttery, frictionless sensation, both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i provides a more neutral, muted sound profile with a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, ideal for office environments requiring a quiet, comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune offers a low-pitched, muted sound with a buttery, frictionless feel, perfect for those seeking a smooth, effortless typing sensation. Whether you choose the Mini i or the Neptune, you can expect a top-notch mechanical keyboard switch experience tailored to your preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the environment you'll be using them in and your personal preferences. If you prioritize a light, bouncy, and easy-to-press typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gateron Mini i switches are a great choice for office settings where quiet professionalism is essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery, frictionless, and polished typing feel with a low-pitched and muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune switches offer a unique matte texture and smooth glide suitable for swift and refined typing experiences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you value gentle tactility and subtle feedback or a seamless, effortless, and textured keystroke sensation.
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