Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches offering a smooth keystroke experience. The MX Speed Silver is ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and responsiveness, thanks to its low spring resistance and instant triggering action. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure providing a unique typing experience that feels like a blend of smoothness and springy resistance. While the MX Speed Silver is known for its rapid response and textured feel, the Neptune offers a buttery, gummy, and almost frictionless typing experience with a muted sound signature. Both switches cater to different preferences and uses. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and TTC Neptune differ in their housing materials, with the MX Speed Silver featuring a nylon top housing and the Neptune using a POM top housing. The nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. In comparison, the POM top housing of the Neptune produces a more muted and deeper sound profile, offering a unique auditory experience for users. While both materials contribute to a pleasant typing experience, they result in slightly different sound profiles, catering to different preferences.
In terms of bottom housing, the MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon material, while the Neptune incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Speed Silver contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its impact on the top housing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, creating a more clear and resonant typing experience. The choice of bottom housing material in these switches significantly influences the overall sound and feel when typing, showcasing the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver and TTC Neptune may have different housing materials for their top and bottom housing, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The properties of nylon and POM in the MX Speed Silver create a softer and deeper sound, while polycarbonate in the Neptune results in a sharper and crisper sound. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches prioritize offering a satisfying and pleasant typing experience for users, showcasing the significance of housing materials in switch design. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both the MX Speed Silver and Neptune cater to a variety of preferences with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, the MX Speed Silver is lighter in actuation force at 30 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the MX Speed Silver's force is unknown, while the Neptune has a light bottom out force of 50 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the MX Speed Silver for longer typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the TTC Neptune due to its heavier actuation force. In both cases, users can expect a smooth linear feel, with the difference lying in the amount of force required for key activation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Neptune switch requires a bit more travel to actuate compared to the MX Speed Silver switch. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance can lead to a slightly different typing experience, with the MX Speed Silver feeling a bit more responsive and the Neptune providing a slightly more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and rich auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a more muted and subdued sound profile, thanks to its low-pitched and thocky characteristics. Both switches aim for a quieter typing experience, with the MX Speed Silver providing a slightly more pronounced sound compared to the Neptune's more subtle tone. Ultimately, whether you choose the Speed Silver or the Neptune switch, you can expect a pleasing sound profile that won't disturb those around you.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as having a textured feel, which can provide users with tactile feedback while typing. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience, making it feel smooth and effortless. The Neptune's unique blend of sensations, reminiscent of "chewy delights" like mochi or tapioca pearls, sets it apart from the more straightforward textured feel of the MX Speed Silver. Whether you prefer a bit of texture or a buttery smooth typing experience, both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences in key feel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and TTC Neptune switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Speed Silver provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, paired with a textured feel, the Neptune boasts a more muted sound profile and a buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and key feel. However, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get reliable and enjoyable performance regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch or the TTC Neptune linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your priorities in typing experience and use case. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness, especially for gaming where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver with its instant triggering and low spring resistance would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a unique tactile sensation and a more muted sound profile for a refined typing experience, the TTC Neptune with its innovative internal structure and ultralight feel may be more fitting for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed in your keystrokes or a more textured and smooth typing feel. Both switches offer distinct advantages, so consider your needs and preferences carefully before making your choice.
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