Cherry MX Silent Red vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TTC Neptune. The Cherry MX Silent Red, a linear switch, is well-known for its similarities to the traditional MX Red switch but with the added benefit of operating silently. This switch offers a slightly heavier feel while maintaining a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune, another linear switch, stands out for its innovative internal structure that sets it apart from other switches. It provides a unique typing experience with a smooth, almost frictionless glide combined with a springy resistance that gives every keystroke a textured pleasure. The Neptune's ultralight design ensures swift and effortless typing, with a muted sound signature to keep the auditory ambiance refined. 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
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TTC Neptune switches both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Neptune uses a POM top housing, which also provides a deep sound profile but with a more muted quality. This difference in sound profile can affect the overall typing experience for users looking for a specific acoustical preference.
In terms of bottom housing, the MX Silent Red utilizes nylon, which further enhances the deeper and fuller sound profile of the switch. This softer plastic material helps to create a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate material contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, especially when the switch is paired with RGB lighting for added visual appeal.
While the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TTC Neptune switches differ in terms of their top and bottom housing compositions, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to individual preferences. The combination of nylon and POM in the MX Silent Red provides a deep and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate material in the Neptune creates a sharp and crisp sound profile. Understanding how the qualities of each housing material impact the overall typing experience can help users choose the switch that best fits their needs, whether they prioritize sound depth or clarity.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force are the key differences. The Cherry MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the Neptune has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down. The MX Silent Red does not have a specified bottom out force, so it may offer a smoother typing experience without a defined resistance at the end of the keystroke. Depending on individual preferences, those who prefer a light and effortless typing feel may opt for the Cherry MX Silent Red, while those seeking a stronger push and more tactile feedback may lean towards the TTC Neptune. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers looking for quicker response times. The 0.1 mm difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, so in terms of actual usage, they would provide similar results. However, for those who are more sensitive to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Silent Red may feel slightly more responsive, while the TTC Neptune may offer a bit more depth in keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch is best described as having a muted, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. The muted characteristic ensures a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile. The low-pitched tones contribute to a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, while the muted quality keeps the auditory ambiance refined. Both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, with the MX Silent Red offering a slightly different tone compared to the Neptune's deeper and more neutral sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, implying a slight friction when pressed. This can provide a tactile feedback that some users prefer. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. The buttery and frictionless qualities ensure a smooth and effortless keystroke, while the gummy sensation adds a unique touch to the typing experience. The mild characteristic offers a gentle typing feel, suitable for most users. Overall, the Neptune switch provides a more varied and refined tactile experience compared to the textured feel of the MX Silent Red.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red and TTC Neptune switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience with a slightly textured feel, while the TTC Neptune offers a harmonious blend of low-pitched, muted sound and a buttery, gummy, frictionless feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the quieter, textured experience of the MX Silent Red or the more varied and refined feel of the TTC Neptune. Both switches excel in different aspects, ensuring users will get distinctive results based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you value a quieter typing experience with a slightly heftier feel, then the MX Silent Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a uniquely textured pleasure with a light and smooth typing sensation, the TTC Neptune could be the perfect fit. Consider your environment and personal typing preferences when making your decision, as both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different needs. Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and TTC Neptune switches will depend on what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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