TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Neptune, a linear switch, to the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, there are distinct differences in their typing experiences. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, offering a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a unique springy resistance akin to indulgent treats like mochi. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue is best known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying audible click with each keystroke. While the Neptune offers a refined and muted sound signature, the Cream Blue is characterized by its clicky and louder typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing habits. 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
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Cream Blue switches offer different sound profiles due to their unique properties. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Cream Blue's nylon top housing produces a fuller and rounder sound. In terms of bottom housing, the Neptune's polycarbonate material results in a sharper and clearer sound, while the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
The POM top housing of the Neptune switch offers a unique sound profile that is more on the deeper side, compared to the Cream Blue's nylon top housing which elicits a fuller sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune results in a sharper and more resonant sound, contrasting with the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing that creates a rounder sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also adds an aesthetic appeal to the Neptune switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting. While both switches may have different material compositions, they both contribute to a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound of the switches, it is evident that each material brings its own qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. The unique properties of POM and polycarbonate in the Neptune switch and nylon in the Cream Blue switch offer users a variety of sound profiles to choose from, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, both switches strive to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Neptune is lighter in both aspects. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams, while the Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams. Similarly, the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Cream Blue has a bottom out force of 65 grams. Therefore, the Neptune provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Cream Blue. This means that users who prefer a lighter feel when typing or gaming for extended periods may gravitate towards the Neptune switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Cream Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing feel for the individual user.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Neptune being slightly shorter than the Cream Blue. Gamers may prefer the Neptune for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Cream Blue with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Cream 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, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with minimal noise. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not available. When it comes to feel, the Neptune switch is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, offering a smooth, effortless, and uniform typing experience with minimal resistance. Unfortunately, details regarding the feel of the Cream Blue switch are not provided. Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch seems to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience with a matte feel, harmonious balance, and muted sound signature. Conversely, without information on the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. However, based on the qualities of the Neptune switch, one can expect a similarly satisfying typing experience with the Cream Blue switch if it offers similar characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky 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 TTC Neptune would be a great choice for you. Its innovative internal structure and ultralight bottom out force of 50 grams provide a unique "matte" feel that is both swift and effortless. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy clicky switch with a bit more tactile feedback, the Outemu Cream Blue might be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Cream Blue offers a different typing experience that is more traditional in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, consider how you like your typing experience to be and choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences.
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