KTT Mint vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and TTC Neptune both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Mint is praised for its smooth linear feel, delivering a satisfying poppy thockiness with a light and fleeting touch. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that provides a balance between a smooth, frictionless glide and a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi. The Neptune's ultralight build ensures swift typing, while its muted sound signature adds a refined touch to the typing experience. While these general descriptions can help guide your decision, delving deeper into the nuances of each switch will ultimately help you determine which one suits your typing style best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, the KTT Mint and TTC Neptune both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, leading to variations in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Mint's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound with a higher pitch, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Neptune's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to individuals who prefer a softer typing sound. However, both switches feature a clear housing, pointing towards the use of polycarbonate for the Mint and POM for the Neptune, making them visually appealing options for those interested in RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Mint's nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing, due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. This contrast in bottom housing materials further emphasizes the unique sound characteristics of each switch and provides users with options based on their specific preferences for typing feel and sound.
In conclusion, while the KTT Mint and TTC Neptune share similarities in their clear housing materials, their use of different plastics for the top and bottom housings results in distinct typing experiences. The Mint's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a clear and resonant sound on top, with a deeper and fuller sound on the bottom, appealing to those seeking a balance between sharpness and depth. In contrast, the Neptune's POM and polycarbonate top and bottom housings offer a softer and more muted sound profile overall, providing a unique typing experience for individuals who prefer a gentler touch. Ultimately, both switches offer diverse options for users looking to customize their typing sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is clear that the Mint requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mint also requires more force at 53 grams compared to the Neptune's 50 grams. This means that overall, the Mint is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Neptune. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neptune would be the better choice, as it has lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the Mint's slightly higher forces may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear 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 range of traditional travel distances, with the Mint being on the slightly longer side and the Neptune being on the slightly shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Neptune for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may prefer the Mint for its more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired responsiveness of the keyboard.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
The KTT Mint linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound that keeps the typing experience refined and unobtrusive. While the Mint switch is described as having a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience with reduced friction, the Neptune switch is characterized by a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation with ultra-smooth key travel. Overall, the Mint switch excels in delivering a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness, while the Neptune switch stands out for its innovative internal structure that combines smoothness with springy resistance, resulting in a uniquely textured pleasure with swift and effortless typing. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, but they both promise a delightful typing experience for newcomers looking for exceptional mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting typing feel, then the KTT Mint linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness makes it a popular option among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique typing experience with a harmonious balance of smoothness and springy resistance, then the TTC Neptune linear switch would be more suitable for you. The Neptune's ultralight feel and matte texture provide a swift and effortless typing experience, while the muted sound signature keeps the auditory ambiance refined and unobtrusive. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a smooth linear typing feel (KTT Mint) or a unique balance of smoothness and resistance (TTC Neptune) for your mechanical keyboard setup.