TTC Neptune vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and SP-Star Polaris Gray both offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and almost frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance reminiscent of mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch offers a textured pleasure with a muted sound signature, making it a great choice for those who desire a polished and subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is praised for its bouncy typing feel and clean, clacky sound profile. If you enjoy a more lively and polished typing experience, the Polaris Gray may be the ideal switch for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star Polaris Gray offer contrasting characteristics when it comes to sound profiles. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience for individuals who prefer a specific sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Polaris Gray allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Neptune and the Polaris Gray utilize polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making keystrokes more audible and precise. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate material in the bottom housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually striking effect. Overall, the choice of polycarbonate for the bottom housing in both keyboards showcases a preference for a sound profile that is distinct and crisp.
While the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star Polaris Gray may differ in terms of top and bottom housings, the qualities each material brings to the switch ultimately impact the overall typing experience. The Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing, whether on the top or bottom, provides a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Neptune's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both keyboards benefit from the stiffness of polycarbonate in creating clear and resonant sound profiles, as well as the visual appeal of translucent housings for RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will come down to individual preferences for sound and aesthetics in a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Neptune switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as for work or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Polaris Gray switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and preference of users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Neptune has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Polaris Gray. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a faster response time, the Neptune may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Polaris Gray to be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, so regardless of the travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 offers a low-pitched and muted sound, providing a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch also offers a low-pitched sound profile that is clean and clacky. Both switches cater to preferences for a quieter typing environment, with the Neptune having a more subdued sound compared to the Polaris Gray. Users can expect a satisfying and deep thocky sound with either switch, depending on their choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its buttery and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and almost gummy sensation with each keystroke. This switch provides a uniform typing sensation that is effortless and enjoyable. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Neptune focusing on a more seamless and textured feel, while the Polaris Gray offers a refined and sleek typing experience.
Overall, both the TTC Neptune and SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Neptune excels in providing a smooth and textured typing experience with a muted and low-pitched sound, while the Polaris Gray focuses on a clean and polished feel with a bouncy typing experience. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, depending on whether they prefer a more frictionless and matte feel or a polished and gentle sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, ensuring a customized typing experience for every user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prioritize a light typing experience with a "matte" feel and a muted sound profile that is swift and effortless, the TTC Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a bouncy feel and a clean, clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a unique, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched, muted sound (Neptune) or a slightly heavier, more bouncy typing feel with a clean, clacky sound (Polaris Gray). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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