TTC Neptune vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and Haimu Orange Sea present two appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience, each with its own distinct characteristics. The TTC Neptune is celebrated for its innovative internal structure that delivers a unique typing sensation likened to the delightful chewiness of mochi or tapioca pearls, making each keystroke feel both buoyant and smooth. Its lightweight design allows for quick and effortless typing, while its muted, thocky sound signature ensures a discreet yet satisfying audible feedback. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches promise an impeccably smooth feel and a neutral sound signature, providing a more classic linear experience that appeals to those who prefer a straightforward and clean typing interface. Ultimately, while both switches cater to the linear switch crowd, they offer different tactile and acoustic experiences that may influence your choice. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Haimu Orange Sea differentiate themselves prominently in their housing materials, which significantly affects their sound profiles and overall user experience. The TTC Neptune employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is characterized by its ability to produce an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. This notable difference suggests that while both switches share a tendency to produce a pleasant sound, the TTC Neptune will offer a more subdued auditory experience, whereas the Orange Sea will resonate with brighter, more vibrant tones.
When considering the bottom housings, the TTC Neptune continues with polycarbonate, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that complements its top housing. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea features a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This results in a more rounded auditory experience for the Orange Sea. Consequently, the differences in bottom housing materials further accentuate the disparity in sound characteristics between the two switches: the Neptune aims for crispness, while the Haimu Orange Sea achieves a deeper resonance.
Ultimately, if we examine the overall impact of these housing materials on each switch, it becomes clear that the combination of top and bottom housings is crucial. The TTC Neptune’s POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing combine to create a balanced sound that retains clarity with a muted character when one releases a key. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea’s polycarbonate top enhances its brightness while the nylon bottom contributes depth, creating a fuller sound when bottoming out. This distinction means that although both switches may utilize polycarbonate in their construction, the different pairings of materials yield varied auditory results that cater to diverse user preferences. Thus, in terms of sound experience, each switch possesses a unique identity shaped intricately by the properties of its materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming. The Neptune switch has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Orange Sea switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch may gravitate toward the Orange Sea for its reduced actuation force. Although both switches are designed for comfortable typing experiences, the Orange Sea provides a lighter touch, which could potentially enhance long-term comfort. In contrast, the Neptune offers a slightly more substantial feel with its increased actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, while both switches deliver similar lightweight characteristics, the choice between them may hinge on individual preferences for tactile feedback and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Neptune requires a bit more travel to reach its actuation point compared to the Orange Sea, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced depth when typing. In contrast, gamers and those who favor rapid response might find the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Orange Sea more appealing, as it allows for quicker key presses. While both switches are designed for linear feel, the Neptune's longer travel distance may result in a less abrupt typing experience, catering to users who appreciate a little more feedback from their switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and depth in key travel.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 TTC Neptune linear switch stands out with its uniquely low-pitched and muted acoustic profile. This switch produces a thocky sound that many typists find deeply satisfying, resembling a soft thud with each keystroke. The Neptune's sound is designed to be subtle and subdued, making it well-suited for environments where noise might be a concern. This contrasts with the Haimu Orange Sea switch, which is characterized by a neutral sound signature. While the Orange Sea doesn’t provide specific descriptors, it implies a more balanced auditory experience, likely making it suitable for both casual typing and professional settings.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune showcases an impressively smooth experience often described as buttery and frictionless. This makes it ideal for rapid typing, offering a resistance similar to chewy mochi, enhancing the overall tactile experience. The Neptune also imparts a gummy sensation when bottoming out, akin to the yield of a trampoline. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Haimu Orange Sea is not described, leaving a gap in information for comparison. However, if it aligns with the general quality of linear switches, one might expect it to provide a smooth typing experience as well, but without the distinctive characteristics identified in the Neptune.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Neptune and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches aim to deliver a pleasing typing experience, their offerings diverge in sound and feel. The Neptune excels with its thocky audio and unique tactile properties, while the Orange Sea remains shrouded in unknowns regarding those qualities. If you're leaning towards a muted sound with a delightful tactile sensation, the Neptune seems to be the clear choice. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and are curious about the smoothness that linear switches typically provide, the Orange Sea may still be worth exploring further.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a light, effortless typing experience that feels almost frictionless, the Neptune is an excellent choice, particularly if you appreciate a muted, thocky sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory layer to your keystrokes. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a smooth, buttery feel that can make long typing sessions feel less taxing, akin to typing on a trampoline. On the other hand, if you prefer a very smooth linear experience paired with a neutral sound signature, the Haimu Orange Sea may be the way to go. Its lighter actuation force of 45 grams provides a responsive and gentle keystroke suitable for both work and gaming, making it a versatile option for various scenarios. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches should reflect your desired typing feedback and sound environment; both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the world of mechanical keyboards.
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