TTC Neptune vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless glide with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch offers a matte feel, making each keystroke a textured pleasure, with a muted sound signature for refined ambience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, providing a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. 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
55g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Everglide Oreo both feature housing materials that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Oreo's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. However, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar crisper sound profile. This shows that the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall acoustics of the switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in clear housings is more common, as it allows for RGB lighting to shine through. Both the Neptune and the Oreo take advantage of this feature by incorporating polycarbonate in their top housings. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the switches but also contributes to a clearer and resonant sound profile. The decision to use polycarbonate for the top housing shows a strategic choice to not only improve the look of the switches but also to enhance the sound experience for users.
When it comes to the tactile experience of pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the feel and sound of the switch. The stiffness of the polycarbonate material in the bottom housing contributes to a crisper bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when letting go of a key. Understanding how each housing material affects the switch as a whole can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Neptune has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Oreo has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Neptune provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Oreo offers a slightly heavier push feel, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the main difference being the slight variation in weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, the Neptune has a travel distance of 3.8 mm while the Oreo has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Neptune has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Oreo. The Neptune would be preferred by those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Oreo may be preferred by those who prefer a deeper key press sensation, as it offers a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches are relatively similar in their travel distances, so users can expect similar results when typing or gaming with either switch.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 characterized by a low-pitched, muted, subdued, and thocky sound profile, providing a quiet and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is noted for its chirpy sound, offering a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. When considering sound, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Neptune focusing on a deeper, more subdued tone, while the Oreo provides a chirpy sound that adds a touch of character to each keystroke.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is characterized as accented and stepped, delivering a medium tactile bump with a comfortable cushioned sensation upon bottoming out. When it comes to feel, the Neptune emphasizes a seamless and effortless key press, while the Oreo offers a balanced tactile feedback without being overwhelming or scratchy.
Overall, while the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, respectively, both switches excel in providing a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer the low-pitched and muted sound of the Neptune or the chirpy sound of the Oreo, both switches offer unique auditory feedback. Similarly, whether you enjoy the buttery smoothness of the Neptune or the accented tactility of the Oreo, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between the TTC Neptune and the Everglide Oreo will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, your choice should primarily depend on your preferred typing experience. If you value a smooth, almost frictionless typing sensation with a matte feel and muted sound profile, the Neptune would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned bottoming-out sensation with a mellow sound profile, the Oreo tactile switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize a linear typing experience with the Neptune or a tactile typing experience with the Oreo. Choose based on what typing feel and sound profile aligns best with your preferences.
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