TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and Outemu Green stand out for their unique characteristics. The Neptune is a linear switch known for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. This switch offers a balanced feel with a muted sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a polished and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is a clicky switch that offers a more tactile and audible typing experience. While the Neptune is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', and 'Muted', the Green switch does not have a specific characterization. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Standard
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 housing materials of the TTC Neptune and Outemu Green switches showcase distinct characteristics that impact the sound profile and feel of typing. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and muted sound, while the Green's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing shares similar properties with the Green's top housing, providing a sharp and clear sound profile. However, the Green's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties.
While the top and bottom housings of the TTC Neptune and Outemu Green switches may vary in material, each housing brings distinct qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, with the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Green creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when a key is released. The POM top housing of the Neptune results in a more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Green delivers a sharper and higher-pitched sound.
In summary, the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and Outemu Green switches play a crucial role in defining their unique sound profiles. Both switches offer contrasting experiences based on their top and bottom housing materials, with the POM and polycarbonate housings of the Neptune creating a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon housings of the Green provide a sharper and fuller sound. Understanding the properties of each housing material is essential for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Neptune is a lighter option with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Green is heavier with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The Neptune provides a lighter touch, ideal for those who prefer a smoother typing experience and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Green switch offers a more substantial push feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a firmer and more tactile typing feedback. Both switches serve different preferences based on the desired typing experience, with the Neptune being lighter and the Green being heavier. Ultimately, selecting between the two would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Neptune has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Green switch. The Neptune's 3.8 mm distance allows for a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Green switch's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper key press feel, which some users may find more comforting. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of desired travel distance and typing experience.
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 Green 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 known for its low-pitched, muted, neutral, and subdued sound profile, offering a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, there is no information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Green clicky switch. The Neptune's low-pitched and muted sound is well-suited for those looking for a more subtle and bass-heavy tone during typing sessions, while the lack of information on the Green switch makes it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is often described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a textured pleasure. Meanwhile, there is no information provided on the feel of the Outemu Green clicky switch. The Neptune's unique combination of characteristics provides users with a tactile and satisfying typing sensation, with its smooth travel and resistance reminiscent of chewy delicacies like mochi.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a harmonious balance of smoothness and springy resistance in a typing experience that is both swift and textured. With a muted sound profile and a buttery, frictionless feel, the Neptune offers a unique and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the information available for the Outemu Green clicky switch is limited, making it challenging to directly compare its subjective qualities to those of the Neptune. If seeking a similar typing experience to the Neptune, selecting a switch known for its smooth and tactile feel, along with a muted sound, may lead to comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother, almost frictionless typing experience with a muted sound profile, then the Neptune switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a more tactile and audible typing experience, you may want to consider the Green switch. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, so consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.