Cherry MX Black vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Black and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Black, with its Cherry Hyperglide tooling, provides a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile while being stiff and low-pitched. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, offering a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance that feels like chewy delights such as mochi or tapioca pearls. The Neptune is categorized as buttery, gummy, frictionless, and thocky, among other attributes. While the MX Black is known for its tactile feedback, the Neptune offers a more unique and enjoyable 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
60g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and TTC Neptune switches both feature top housing materials that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The MX Black uses nylon for its top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Neptune utilizes POM for its top housing, resulting in a more muted and pleasing sound with a deeper tone. While both materials enhance the switch's sound profile, the specific characteristics of nylon and POM result in unique auditory experiences for users.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Cherry MX Black and TTC Neptune switches diverge in their sound profiles. The MX Black employs nylon for its bottom housing, which, similar to the top housing material, generates a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Neptune features a polycarbonate bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials leads to distinct sound experiences when pressing down on the switches, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the Cherry MX Black and TTC Neptune switches have differing top and bottom housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of nylon and POM in the top housing of the MX Black and Neptune switches, respectively, results in deeper tones and muted sounds. Additionally, the choice of polycarbonate for the Neptune's bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Black's nylon bottom housing. Whether seeking a duller, rounder sound or a sharper, resonant sound, both switches offer distinctive auditory experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams compared to the TTC Neptune linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the MX Black will require more force to register a keypress and to fully press down compared to the Neptune switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neptune would be the more suitable option, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the MX Black would be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black 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. This means that the MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. When it comes to typing or gaming preferences, some users may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Neptune for faster response times, especially gamers. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more tactile and deep keystroke experience may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keyboard feel and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its low-pitched profile, offering a deep and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch provides a similar low-pitched sound but with the added benefit of being muted and subdued, creating a more refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. The Neptune switch also features a thocky sound when pressed, adding a satisfying richness to the typing experience. Overall, both switches deliver pleasant sound profiles, albeit with slight variations in tone and intensity.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is characterized by its textured and stiff nature, providing users with a tactile feedback during typing. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery and frictionless feel, allowing for a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. The Neptune switch also features a gummy sensation when bottoming out, adding a unique tactile element to each keystroke. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the MX Black having a more noticeable texture and resistance compared to the Neptune's smoother and more fluid feel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black and TTC Neptune switches provide users with distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the MX Black offers a deep and textured sound with a tactile feedback, the Neptune delivers a muted and smooth sound with a buttery and frictionless feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between the two switches to suit their typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique blend of smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance, along with a muted sound signature for a refined typing experience, the TTC Neptune linear switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so it's important to assess what matters most to you in a keyboard switch before making a decision.
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