TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Neptune and the Outemu Silver are two linear mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, resembling the springy resistance of chewy treats like mochi. This switch offers a unique "matte" feel, making each keystroke a textured pleasure, while also being ultralight for swift typing and producing a muted sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is known for None. If you're looking for a switch that is 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Subdued', and 'Thocky', the Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. 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
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 the Outemu Silver switches each have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Neptune features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles is due to the different properties of the plastics used - POM is known for its pleasing sound, while polycarbonate is stiffer and more resonant. Additionally, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing shares a similar sound profile to the Silver's top housing, further highlighting the difference in sound between the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the material composition of the top housing also plays a role, especially when it comes to RGB lighting. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through more effectively. On the other hand, the Neptune's POM top housing may not be as visually striking when paired with RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to the overall sound profile, with the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Silver's nylon bottom housing each providing a different tactile experience. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a crisper sound, while the softer nylon absorbs more sound for a duller sound profile.
Overall, while both the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Silver switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their housing materials, they also share some similarities in terms of the impact of the bottom and top housings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing the key. These differences in housing materials and their effects on sound and feel can greatly influence the overall typing experience for users looking to customize their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is lighter in both aspects compared to the Silver. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silver boasts an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. As such, the Neptune offers a lighter typing experience overall. Some users may find the Neptune more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lower forces. In contrast, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Silver may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and the desired level of force required for typing.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Outemu Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Neptune offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for fast responsiveness may prefer the Neptune, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Silver with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of feel and response time.
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 Silver 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 is known for its low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky characteristics, providing a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound quality is unknown, so you may get a similar experience from both switches if you prioritize a quiet typing environment. Moving on to feel, the TTC Neptune offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke with a textured pleasure. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Silver switch remains unknown. In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that combines a smooth glide with a springy resistance and a matte textured feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch would be an excellent choice. However, if quietness and a gentle typing experience are your main priorities, both switches may provide a similar result in that regard. Ultimately, test both switches if possible to determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the Outemu Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth and almost frictionless feel, along with a muted and refined sound profile, then the TTC Neptune would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silver might be more suitable. Keep in mind that the Neptune offers a unique "matte" feel and a swift typing experience, while the Silver's characteristics are not as clearly defined in terms of sound and feel. Whichever switch you choose, both the Neptune and Silver have their own distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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