TTC Neptune vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Neptune and the KTT Purple Star are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer distinct typing experiences. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and almost frictionless glide combined with a springy resistance that brings a unique "matte" feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches feature an all-POM construction, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out that makes them perfect for light typists. While the Neptune offers a refined and textured typing experience, the Purple Star focuses on comfort and ease of typing. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and KTT Purple Star both feature POM top housings that create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. This means that when typing on either of these switches, users can expect a similar auditory experience. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Star features a POM bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and more muted sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing is especially useful for switches that feature RGB lighting due to its translucency. The clear bottom housing allows for the lighting effects to shine through, adding an extra visual element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing does not offer this feature, but still maintains the pleasing and unique sound profile that POM housings are known for. While the bottom housings of these two switches serve different purposes in terms of sound and aesthetics, they both contribute to an overall enjoyable typing experience.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be felt differently. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that users of the Neptune and Purple Star will experience differences in the typing feel based on the materials used in their respective top and bottom housings. Despite these variations, both switches offer a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches have fairly similar characteristics. The actuation force of the Neptune is slightly lighter at 41 grams compared to the 43 grams of the Purple Star. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a consistent typing experience in terms of required force for a full keystroke. In terms of weight, both switches can be considered light, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the differences in actuation force between the two switches are minimal, and users can expect similar results when it comes to typing feel and force required for key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is clear that the Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Purple Star's 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. The Neptune's 3.8 mm travel distance may provide a slightly more substantial feel compared to the Purple Star's 3.5 mm, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and responsiveness.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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, and subdued sound profile, providing a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is also low-pitched, emphasizing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer a quiet typing experience, suitable for environments where noise level is a concern. When considering sound, users can expect a similar result from both switches in terms of a pleasant and neutral sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience, offering a harmonious blend of smoothness and tactile feedback reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. The Purple Star linear switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and easy-to-press typing feel, catering to light typists seeking comfort and ease during extended typing sessions. While the Neptune emphasizes a luxurious and textured typing experience, the Purple Star focuses on providing a gentle and approachable keystroke. Users can expect a difference in feel between the two switches, with the Neptune offering a more premium and tactile typing experience compared to the Purple Star's light and effortless feel.
Overall, when considering both sound and feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch stands out for its unique blend of smoothness, texture, and muted sound profile, providing a premium typing experience for users who appreciate a tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch prioritizes lightness and ease of typing, offering a mild and comfortable typing feel with a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the tactile luxury of the Neptune or the effortless comfort of the Purple Star for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a switch with a unique "matte" feel and a smooth, almost frictionless glide, the Neptune may be the one for you. Its muted sound signature and ultralight 50g bottom-out force ensure a refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with an all-POM construction and a slightly lighter 45g bottom-out force, the Purple Star could be a great fit. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile, both options align in this aspect. Ultimately, considering factors like feel, sound, and typing experience will help you make the best choice between these two switches.
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