TTC Neptune vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and KTT Pine linear switches stand out as top contenders. The Neptune is characterized by its innovative internal structure, offering a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a unique springy resistance that feels like indulging in chewy delights. On the other hand, the Pine boasts a medium-heavy feel with a buttery smooth touch, perfect for effortless typing. While the Neptune provides a muted sound signature and ultralight design for swift typing, the Pine offers a polished, factory-lubed finish for minimal friction. It ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound when choosing between these two switches. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and KTT Pine switches both showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced aesthetics, especially when paired with RGB lighting. This makes it a popular choice for both top and bottom switch housings in mechanical keyboards. The Neptune utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, while the Pine also opts for polycarbonate in both housing components. As a result, users can expect a consistent sound profile and feel when using either of these switches.
However, despite both switches using polycarbonate for their housing materials, there are subtle differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Neptune's POM top housing is noted for creating a more muted and deeper sound profile, which may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing is described as producing a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those who prefer a more tactile typing feel. These differences in sound profiles can influence the overall typing experience and may cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of construction, the Neptune and Pine switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of a keyboard. The bottom housing is primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. By utilizing polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings, both switches can provide a consistent and balanced typing experience. This ensures that users can enjoy a tactile and satisfying typing experience, whether they are using the Neptune or the Pine switch in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is lighter in terms of both forces. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This makes the Neptune more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Pine offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Pine linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Neptune offers a slightly shallower press compared to the Pine, which may appeal to users looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Pine switch provides a bit more depth to each key press, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the specific feel desired while using the keyboard.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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, subdued, and thocky sound profile. This results in a quiet and refined typing experience that is not intrusive in a work or home setting. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses compared to the Neptune. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune switch is characterized by its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. This results in a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation that is akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or enjoying the refined finish of a polished switch. Similarly, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that makes typing feel like gliding effortlessly across the keys. Both switches provide a comfortable and pleasant tactile feedback while typing.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a unique matte feel with a frictionless glide and springy resistance, creating a textured pleasure with a muted sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch provides a medium-heavy, smooth typing experience with factory-lubed switches for minimized friction and smooth key travel. While both switches differ in sound and feel characteristics, they both aim to provide an enjoyable and efficient typing experience for users. Based on the available information, users can expect to get similar results in terms of comfort and typing efficiency with either switch, depending on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the KTT Pine linear switch, you should focus on the specific qualities that align with your preferences. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force for swift and effortless typing with a muted and low-pitched sound profile, the TTC Neptune would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a smooth, buttery feel and a bassy, low-pitched sound, the KTT Pine may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you value the unique "matte" feel of the Neptune or the polished, factory-lubed finish of the Pine. Be sure to consider how these factors align with your typing habits and overall keyboard experience to make the best choice for your needs.
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