TTC Neptune vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune, a linear switch, and the BSUN Olive, a tactile switch, offer distinct typing experiences. The Neptune stands out for its smooth, frictionless glide and springy resistance, giving it a unique "matte" feel that makes each keystroke a textured pleasure. On the other hand, the Olive features an all-POM housing that produces a deep, resonant sound, coupled with pronounced tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience. While the Neptune is ideal for those seeking a buttery, muted typing experience, the Olive caters to individuals who prefer a sharp, snappy feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Bsun Olive both feature POM as the top housing material, creating a unique, deep, and relatively muted sound profile. However, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Olive's POM bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Neptune leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This difference in bottom housing materials results in a noticeable variation in sound and feel when typing on the two keyboards.
While the POM top housing of both the TTC Neptune and the Bsun Olive produces a pleasing and unique sound, the bottom housing materials offer a stark contrast in sound profiles. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the deeper and more muted sound produced by the POM bottom housing of the Olive. This difference in bottom housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, with the Neptune providing a clearer and more resonant sound while the Olive offers a softer and deeper tone. These differences in housing materials highlight the importance of considering the composition of both the top and bottom housings in keyboard design.
In summary, the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Bsun Olive play a critical role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of each keyboard. While both keyboards feature POM top housings with a similar sound profile, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Olive's POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials influences the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. These differences in housing materials showcase the importance of considering the composition of both top and bottom housings when designing mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Neptune offers a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke and may type for extended periods of time. In contrast, the Olive provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger tactile response for a more pronounced typing experience. Both switches offer distinct levels of resistance, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, the Neptune has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Olive has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Olive has a shorter travel distance compared to the Neptune. The difference may seem small, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch. The Neptune's longer travel distance may provide a more cushioned feel when typing, while the Olive's shorter travel distance could result in a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer different experiences, with the Neptune providing a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a deeper press, and the Olive offering a shorter travel distance for those seeking a quicker response.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued sound profile, giving off a thocky sound when pressed, making it a quiet and refined choice. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive tactile switch is described as having a resonant, deep sound, but further details on its sound profile are not available. Depending on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard setup, the sound produced by each switch will vary, but the Neptune will provide a bass-heavy, mellow tone, while the Olive might offer a deeper, more resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless feel with a touch of resistance for tactile feedback. In contrast, the BSUN Olive tactile switch is characterized by its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback without additional information on the overall feel. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Neptune focusing on a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance, and the Olive highlighting a sharp, pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying keystroke sensation.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the BSUN Olive tactile switch each bring distinct qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune offers a harmonious balance of smooth glide and subtle tactile feedback, resulting in a muted sound profile and a luxurious matte typing experience. On the other hand, the Olive presents a deep, resonant sound with pronounced tactile feedback, delivering a sharp, snappy typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience tailored to individual tastes.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a muted sound profile, the Neptune would be a great choice for you. It offers a unique "matte" feel with almost frictionless keystrokes, making typing swift and effortless. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with pronounced tactile feedback and a deep sound signature, the Olive switch might be more suited to your liking. Its all-POM housing and long pole stem provide a crisp bottom-out and a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what characteristics matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making a decision.
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