TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Milk Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Milk Blue presents a compelling juxtaposition of typing experiences. The TTC Neptune is a linear switch that excels in delivering a smooth, almost frictionless keystroke, reminiscent of the delightful texture of mochi or tapioca pearls. Its ultralight actuation promotes speedy typing, while its muted, thocky sound signature ensures that your typing remains pleasant and unobtrusive. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue switch offers a distinctly clicky experience, providing tactile feedback with an audible "click" that many typists find satisfying and engaging. While the Neptune is ideal for those who prioritize a serene and speedy typing rhythm, the Milk Blue appeals to users who enjoy the audible confirmation of each keystroke. Each switch has its merits depending on your typing style and aesthetic preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Neptune Linear

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the TTC Neptune and Outemu Milk Blue switches highlight notable differences in acoustic properties and sound profiles. The Neptune features a POM top housing, known for its ability to produce a uniquely muted sound with a deeper resonance. This contrasts with the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing, which amplifies higher frequencies, resulting in a sharper and crisper audio output. The choice of POM in the Neptune contributes to a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer less pronounced auditory feedback, while polycarbonate typically caters to those who enjoy accentuated clarity and brightness in sound.

When examining the bottom housings, the differences continue to play a significant role in how each switch performs. The Neptune incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, akin to its top housing, lends a brighter, high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Milk Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing that is recognized for producing a deeper, rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows the Milk Blue to absorb more sound, providing a fuller typing experience. The combination of a polycarbonate bottom housing and a nylon bottom housing thus results in distinct auditory experiences while typing, with each switch offering its unique sound signature based on the materials chosen.

Ultimately, the differing top and bottom housing materials showcase how their respective qualities impact the overall user experience. For example, even though Neptune’s top and bottom housings both utilize polycarbonate, they yield a more coherent sound profile by maintaining bright characteristics throughout. Conversely, the Milk Blue's combination of a sharp polycarbonate top and a soft nylon bottom creates a blend of sounds, filling out the auditory landscape with distinct tonal layers. Whether users prefer the subtler muted sounds of the Neptune or the dynamic array found in the Milk Blue, understanding how the materials interact can lead to a more tailored typing experience based on individual preferences.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out characteristics. The Neptune features an actuation force of 41 grams, making it a lighter switch perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Milk Blue requires a stronger actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Although the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams, the bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown, leaving it unclear how it compares in that regard. Overall, the Neptune is the lighter option, while the Milk Blue is heavier, catering to distinct preferences in typing feel and stamina.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it's clear that they differ. The Neptune has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Milk Blue features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Neptune the shorter option, appealing to those who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation times, which is often preferred by gamers. In contrast, the Milk Blue's 4 mm travel distance offers a more considerable depth, which may feel more satisfying for users who enjoy a deeper keystroke experience. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch that provides a snappier response, the Neptune would be the better choice, while the Milk Blue might cater to those who appreciate a more pronounced pressing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Neptune switch offers a unique and refined audio profile that is characterized by its low-pitched, muted, and thocky qualities. This combination results in a softer, more bass-heavy sound that is less intrusive, making it suitable for both home and office environments. The thocky aspect adds a satisfying depth to each keystroke, akin to a gentle thud when a key is pressed, allowing for an enjoyable auditory experience during use. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue, while traditionally a clicky switch, lacks any specified sound characteristics in this context, leaving a significant gap in comparison regarding auditory feedback.

When it comes to feel, the Neptune switch excels in delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. With descriptors like buttery, gummy, and frictionless, it provides a sensation reminiscent of gliding over soft, yielding surfaces. This effortless tactile feedback is paired with a springy resistance that adds an engaging playfulness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Milk Blue does not have defined feel characteristics listed, which could imply greater variability or uncertainty, especially regarding the overall typing experience compared to the well-defined nature of the Neptune.

In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch presents itself as a well-rounded choice for those seeking a smooth, quiet, and pleasant typing experience, characterized by both an enjoyable auditory sound signature and a refined tactile feedback. The absence of detailed qualities for the Outemu Milk Blue in both sound and feel suggests a potential for less predictable performance, leaving newcomers with a clearer avenue toward satisfaction with the Neptune if they favor a muted, smooth experience. For those considering these options, the Neptune is likely to deliver a more consistent and enjoyable typing journey, whereas the Milk Blue might require additional exploration to truly understand its qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch depends largely on your typing preferences and intended use. If you value smoothness and a light touch, the TTC Neptune is an excellent choice, offering a frictionless experience with its 50-gram bottom-out force that promotes swift and effortless typing. Additionally, if you prefer a quieter setup, the Neptune with its muted, thocky sound signature will allow for a more subdued typing experience, making it ideal for both home and professional environments where noise might be a concern. On the other hand, if you enjoy the distinct tactile feedback and audible click that comes with a non-linear switch, you might lean towards the Outemu Milk Blue. A clicky switch can enhance your typing experience by providing clear feedback with each keystroke, which can be satisfying for those who thrive on tactile confirmation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to whether you prefer a soft, quiet, and smooth typing experience with the Neptune or a loud and tactile sensation with the Milk Blue.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Neptune Linear

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more