TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Neptune and Outemu Blue offer distinct experiences for typists. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless typing experience akin to chewy delights like mochi. With a unique "matte" feel and ultralight design, the Neptune offers a refined and subdued typing experience with a muted sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its clicky tactile feedback, offering a satisfying click with every keystroke. While the Neptune is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', and 'Muted', the Outemu Blue falls under a different category. Both switches have their own appeal, so it's important to consider your preferences and typing style when choosing between them. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Blue switches, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Neptune features a POM top housing, which creates a deep and muted sound, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the use of clear polycarbonate in the Blue switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually striking element to the switch. On the other hand, the Neptune's POM top housing may not offer the same level of transparency for RGB effects, but it still provides a satisfying sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, we see another contrast between the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Blue's nylon bottom housing. Both materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, with polycarbonate offering a sharper and crisper sound, while nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the Neptune provides a clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer nature of nylon in the Blue absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These differences in bottom housing materials showcase how varied the typing experience can be based on the construction of the switch.
In terms of functionality, the different materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Neptune and Blue switches have a direct impact on the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with each material contributing its unique characteristics to the overall sound profile of the switch. Whether it's the deep and muted sound of the Neptune's POM top housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the Blue's polycarbonate top housing, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Neptune is lighter in both aspects. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and no specified bottom out force. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Neptune make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Blue switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation force, catering to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with lighter switches being favored for extended use and heavier switches for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Blue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. In terms of preference, gamers may lean towards the Neptune switch for its shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced key press and depth may opt for the Outemu Blue switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of key feel and actuation, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. Moving onto the feel, the Neptune switch is praised for its buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth, effortless, and uniform sensation with each keystroke. The Blue switch's feel qualities are unknown. Overall, while the Neptune switch provides a unique blend of smoothness and muted sound profile, the Outemu Blue switch's characteristics remain to be explored. Depending on personal preference, users looking for a refined and frictionless typing experience with minimal noise may lean towards the Neptune switch, while those seeking a more clicky and tactile feedback may find the Outemu Blue switch appealing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the Outemu Blue clicky switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. If you value a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a light bottom out force, as well as a low-pitched and muted sound profile, then the TTC Neptune switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a distinct tactile feedback and audible click sound, then the Outemu Blue switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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