TTC Neptune vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the linear TTC Neptune to the tactile Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless glide with a subtle springy resistance that evokes the enjoyment of chewy treats like mochi. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering. While the Neptune ensures swift and effortless typing with a muted sound signature, the Purple Sakura provides a mild and neutral sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura differ significantly in terms of sound profiles and overall aesthetics. The POM top housing of the Neptune creates a deeper and muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
While the Neptune's top and bottom housings are both made of polycarbonate, the combination of sharp and deep sound profiles can provide a unique typing experience. In comparison, the Purple Sakura's top and bottom housings made of different materials offer a more pronounced difference in sound profiles between pressing down and letting go of a key. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a more resonant sound when the key is released, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out. This contrast in materials highlights the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboard switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether opting for the deeper and muted sound of POM in the Neptune or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura, users can customize their typing experience based on their preferences. Additionally, the aesthetic considerations of translucency for RGB lighting in polycarbonate top housings add a visual element to the overall design of the switch. Ultimately, understanding the different qualities that each housing material brings can help users make informed decisions when selecting mechanical keyboard switches for their desired typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch. The Neptune requires 41 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Purple Sakura needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. The Neptune's light actuation force makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Purple Sakura's heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. So, if a user prefers a lighter touch, they should go for the Neptune, whereas those who prefer a stronger push should opt for the Purple Sakura for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, we can see that the Neptune has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Purple Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The Neptune offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive feel or a slightly longer, more satisfying key press.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 offers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound profile, providing a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Neptune and Purple Sakura switches are described as buttery and mild, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Neptune switch boasts a frictionless feel, while the Purple Sakura switch is noted for its snappy response, giving a more lively typing experience. Overall, while the Neptune offers a unique matte feel and swift typing experience, the Purple Sakura provides a decadently buttery downstroke and a delicate tactility. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will enjoy their time spent typing on either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you are seeking a switch with an innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, almost frictionless glide and a muted sound profile, the Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, the Purple Sakura might be more in line with your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the unique feel and sound of the Neptune or the tactile response and buttery keystrokes of the Purple Sakura. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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