TTC Neptune vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Neptune and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer two distinct typing experiences. The Neptune stands out for its unique internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless glide coupled with a springy resistance that evokes the texture of mochi or tapioca pearls. This results in a matte feel that enhances every keystroke, making typing a truly pleasurable experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) excels in maximum tactility, offering a sharp tactility and clean clack that is sure to satisfy those who crave a more pronounced tactile feedback. While the Neptune focuses on a muted sound signature and effortless typing, the POM T1 emphasizes a sharp and invigorating typing experience. 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
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature POM top housings that create a pleasing and unique sound profile with deeper tones and muted qualities. This similarity in material results in a consistent auditory experience when typing on both keyboards, making them ideal choices for those who appreciate a specific sound profile. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Neptune utilizes polycarbonate, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast highlights how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a translucent quality that is especially useful for showcasing RGB lighting effects. This feature adds a visually appealing element to the keyboard, enhancing the overall user experience. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) may not offer the same level of visual interest, but it still contributes to the unique sound profile of the keyboard. This difference in material choice showcases how housing materials can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes in keyboard design.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Neptune and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While both keyboards offer a pleasing typing experience with their POM top housings, the Neptune's use of polycarbonate on the bottom housing creates a different auditory experience compared to the POM bottom housing of the POM T1. Whether you prioritize a sharper sound profile with visual flair or a deeper, more muted sound profile, both keyboards provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neptune requires 50 grams, while the POM T1 requires a heavier 67 grams. This means that the Neptune will feel lighter to type on overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) will provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches have their unique qualities in terms of actuation and bottom out force, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the POM T1 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Neptune being slightly shorter than the standard 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the Neptune for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the POM T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key 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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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, which offers a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant and neutral sound profile, emphasizing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Each switch offers a unique sound signature, allowing users to choose based on their preference for bass-heavy tones or higher-pitched, immersive sounds.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and textured pleasure with every keystroke. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback, delivering a prominent and distinct feel with each keypress. These switches cater to users seeking either a gentle and seamless typing sensation or a high-feedback intensity and reactive feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch stands out for its ultralight and smooth typing experience, coupled with a subtle and refined sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers maximum tactility with a sharp and immersive sound profile, providing users with a punchy and responsive typing experience. Both switches excel in different aspects, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Whether opting for the Neptune or the Sunflower, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience tailored to their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a smooth and matte typing experience with a light bottom out force, then the TTC Neptune linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its low-pitched and muted sound profile, combined with a buttery and frictionless feel, makes for a refined and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and maximum tactility, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. With its sharp and resonant sound profile and sharp, accented tactile bump, every keypress on these switches will provide a satisfyingly clean clack and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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