TTC Neptune vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream both offer unique typing experiences, but in different ways. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth, frictionless glide combined with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This creates a matte feel that enhances every keystroke with a textured pleasure, all while maintaining a muted sound signature for a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that adds a sense of depth to each keystroke. While the Neptune is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', and 'Polished', the Cream switches are described as 'Textured' and 'Invigorating'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
41g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream both feature POM top housings which create a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side with a more muted tone. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Cream opts for a POM bottom housing, maintaining the pleasing sound profile of POM while keeping a deeper and more muted tone overall.
In terms of aesthetics, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a clear, translucent appearance that is especially useful for showcasing RGB lighting effects. This clear housing gives the switch a modern and sleek look while also enhancing any lighting features. In comparison, the Cream's POM bottom housing does not offer this translucency but still maintains the unique sound profile that POM is known for. This difference in materials highlights how the choice of housing material can impact not only the sound but also the visual appeal of a mechanical switch.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of the switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune will contribute to a more clear and resonant feedback, while the POM bottom housing of the Cream maintains a deeper and more muted tone upon key press. On the other hand, the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released, with both switches featuring POM top housings that create a pleasing sound profile. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Neptune and the Cream deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique combination of housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Neptune requires 50 grams, while the Cream needs 70 grams, making the Cream switch heavier in this aspect as well. For those who prefer a lighter touch and enjoy typing for longer periods without fatigue, the Neptune switch may be the better choice. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the NovelKeys Cream switch. Overall, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Neptune provide a smoother typing experience, while the heavier forces of the Cream switch offer a more tactile and robust feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. A 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but for some users, it can impact the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a more responsive and quicker key press may lean towards the Neptune with the shorter travel distance, while others who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel may opt for the NovelKeys Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer similar results in terms of linear actuation, but the difference in travel distance may provide users with a unique typing experience based on their individual preferences.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 qualities of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, the Neptune offers a low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream switch provides a low-pitched and resonant sound. The Neptune's sound is more subdued and mellow, while the Cream switch has a cleaner and sharper sound, creating a deeper auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Neptune leaning towards a softer and more refined sound, while the Cream switch delivers a more resonant and immersive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished. The typing experience on the Neptune switch is smooth, effortless, and uniform, with a springy resistance similar to textures found in chewy treats. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a buttery, textured, and invigorating feel. The Cream switch provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation, with noticeable friction that adds a tactile feedback to each keystroke. Both switches offer a polished and refined typing experience, with the Neptune focusing on smoothness and effortless glide, while the Cream switch emphasizes on pronounced feedback and a reactive feel.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Neptune switch provides a softer and more muted sound, coupled with a textured and effortless feel, the Cream switch delivers a deeper and resonant sound with a tactile and invigorating typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar satisfying results in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Neptune and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a smoother typing feel with a muted sound profile, the TTC Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force with a deeper sound profile and a more textured typing experience, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream could be the switch that suits your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smoother, effortless typing feel or a more tactile and textured typing experience. Keep in mind your personal preferences and typing style when selecting the switch that will enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
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