TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean are two options that stand out in the linear switch category. The TTC Neptune is renowned for its innovative internal structure, providing a unique typing experience that seamlessly combines smoothness with a springy resistance akin to chewy treats like mochi. With its ultralight design and muted sound signature, the Neptune offers a refined and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean may lack a specific standout feature, but it is known for its reliability and durability. It is a more standard linear switch with a quiet operation. Both switches have their own sets of characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The TTC Neptune and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the use of a clear polycarbonate housing in the Dustproof Silent Ocean allows for RGB lighting effects, whereas the opaque POM housing of the Neptune offers a more classic look.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile similar to its top housing. Conversely, the Dustproof Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Neptune. The difference in bottom housing materials can affect the overall typing experience, with the Neptune offering a sharper bottom-out sound and the Dustproof Silent Ocean providing a softer and more absorbent sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean plays a significant role in their sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Neptune's POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing result in a consistent sound profile throughout the typing action, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a more dynamic range of sounds. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Neptune has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Neptune switch would be preferred by users who prefer a lighter typing experience and those who value typing for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch would be suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in the typing experience and cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Neptune switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. For those who prefer a bit more depth and a less abrupt feel when pressing down on a key, the Neptune switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for even quicker response times, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch would be the better option. Overall, both switches offer similar benefits but cater to slightly different preferences in terms of travel distance.
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 Silent Ocean 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky typing experience, resulting in a refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare on this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is characterized by its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, making it challenging to make a direct comparison. Both switches may provide similar results in terms of feel if they share similar features.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch shines with its unique combination of smoothness and resistance, resulting in a textured pleasure with every keystroke. Its ultralight design ensures swift and effortless typing, while its muted sound signature maintains a refined auditory ambiance. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's qualities are unknown, making it difficult to fully assess its subjective qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may depend on personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a light bottom out force of 50 grams, a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a matte feel, and a sound profile described as low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky, then the TTC Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are seeking a switch with a unique internal structure that offers a smooth and uniform typing sensation, the Dustproof Silent Ocean might be more suitable. Keep in mind that the sound and feel characteristics of the Dustproof Silent Ocean are not explicitly described, so make sure to test out the switch to see if it aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, preferences for bottom out force, and the overall typing experience you desire.
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