TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Neptune and the Outemu Dustproof Purple are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Neptune is a linear switch famous for its innovative internal structure, delivering a smooth and frictionless typing feel with a touch of springy resistance, reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that lacks specific standout features but provides a traditional clicky sound with tactile feedback. While the Neptune offers a textured pleasure with a muted sound signature, the Dustproof Purple delivers a more traditional 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
55g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches, we can see a clear distinction between the two. The Neptune features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Dustproof Purple has a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The difference in sound profiles is directly related to the characteristics of the materials used in the housing - POM being softer and polycarbonate being stiffer. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to its functionality.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a similar sound profile to its top housing, sharp and crisp. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound due to its softer nature. This contrast highlights how different materials can impact the overall sound experience of a switch. The choice between a sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or a fuller sound of nylon can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
While the Neptune and the Dustproof Purple switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, each material brings a unique sound profile to the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings mean that the sound and feel of the switch will vary depending on whether you are pressing down or letting go of a key. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making the choice between POM and polycarbonate, or polycarbonate and nylon, a matter of personal preference and typing style.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it heavier. On the other hand, the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Dustproof Purple has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully press down. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter typing experience and a lower actuation force, the Neptune switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Neptune offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast input recognition. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple provides a bit more depth to each keystroke, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feeling when typing. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the Neptune being the shorter option and the Dustproof Purple being the longer option, catering to different preferences.
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 Dustproof Purple 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 is characterized by a low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound profile. This means that the switch produces a deep, bass-heavy, and mellow tone with a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, resulting in a refined and pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound profile is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience. This means that each keystroke feels smooth, fluid, and effortless, akin to pressing a key on a trampoline or gummy bear. The switch minimizes any sense of resistance or friction, providing a polished and refined typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is not provided, making it challenging to contrast the two switches' tactile qualities.
Taking into account the available information, the TTC Neptune linear switch stands out for its unique combination of a smooth, almost frictionless glide and a springy resistance that delivers a textured pleasure with each keystroke. Its sound signature is low-pitched, muted, and thocky, providing a refined auditory ambiance. Similarly, the switch offers a buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience, ensuring swift and effortless typing sessions. On the other hand, details on the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound and feel are unknown, making direct comparisons challenging. Overall, if the newcomer values a smooth, buttery feel and a refined, low-pitched sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch would be a fantastic choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi, the Neptune with its ultralight bottom out force of 50 grams might be the ideal choice for you. Its low-pitched, muted sound profile and buttery, gummy, frictionless feel offer a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Purple might be more suitable. However, keep in mind that the Dustproof Purple lacks specific sound and feel descriptors, so be prepared to experience a different typing experience compared to the detailed characteristics of the Neptune. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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