TTC Neptune vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Neptune, a linear switch, and the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch, presents a unique selection dilemma. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that offers a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights. This switch provides a matte feel, ensuring every keystroke is a textured pleasure, while its ultralight design facilitates swift, effortless typing with a muted sound signature. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum distinguishes itself with its hefty feel and unique lack of a large tactile bump, providing a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. While the Neptune offers a buttery and gummy typing experience, the Plum leans towards a more neutral and stepped sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 TTC Neptune and the Kailh Plum both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Plum's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Plum's nylon bottom housing also have distinct sound profiles, with the polycarbonate being sharper and crisper, and the nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches utilize their housing materials to enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Plum switch allows for translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Neptune's POM top housing does not offer this feature, but instead focuses on creating a pleasing and unique sound. The bottom housings of both switches also play a role in the sound profile, with the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing contributing to a clear and resonant sound, while the Plum's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Kailh Plum have their own unique characteristics that impact the sound profile of the switches. While the Neptune focuses on creating a distinct sound experience with its POM top housing, the Plum offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. The bottom housings of the switches also play a role in the overall sound profile, with each material offering its own unique qualities. Regardless of these differences, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience through their housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The Neptune also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Neptune make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Plum provides a more substantial typing feel, catering to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are currently popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Neptune offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Plum's shorter travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a quicker and more immediate key press. Ultimately, both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results regardless of their choice.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which is enjoyable and suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches provide a pleasant sound experience, with the Neptune featuring a quieter and more bass-heavy tone, while the Plum offers a more neutral and versatile sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch stands out for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, and mild typing experience, providing a smooth and textured sensation with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a mild and stepped feel, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience with a unique two-stage tactile feedback. Both switches deliver a comfortable typing experience, with the Neptune excelling in providing a smooth and effortless glide, while the Plum offers a more gentle and stepped tactile response.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune provides a unique matte feel with a harmonious balance of smoothness and resistance, accompanied by a muted and low-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Plum features a versatile and enjoyable neutral sound profile, coupled with a mild and stepped tactile feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches can provide satisfying results, with the Neptune delivering a more textured and frictionless feel, while the Plum offers a gentle and versatile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the TTC Neptune and Kailh Plum switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light, almost frictionless glide with a unique matte feel and muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a neutral sound profile and a unique weightiness without a prominent tactile bump, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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