TTC Neptune vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Neptune and Gateron Quinn are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Neptune is a linear switch known for its smooth, frictionless glide and springy resistance, providing a textured pleasure with every keystroke. In contrast, the Quinn is a tactile switch that offers crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, adding character to the typing experience. While the Neptune excels in providing a buttery, gummy feel with a muted sound signature, the Quinn offers a snappy, bassy feedback with a clean and precise tactile bump. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
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 double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Gateron Quinn switches both offer unique sound profiles based on their composition. The POM top housing of the Neptune creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the nylon top housing of the Quinn produces a fuller and rounder sound. This difference in sound can be attributed to the softer nature of nylon compared to the stiffer POM material. Despite this distinction, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their individual sound characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the polycarbonate material used in the Neptune results in a sharper and clearer sound profile, contrasting with the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon bottom housing of the Quinn. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, while the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound. This difference in sound quality between the bottom housings further emphasizes the unique characteristics of each switch and how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience.
It is important to consider how the top and bottom housings of a switch interact to create a cohesive sound profile. The Neptune and Quinn switches showcase how the qualities of each housing material can be divided between the bottom and top of the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these dynamics can help users choose a switch with the desired sound characteristics based on the specific housing materials used in the construction of the switch.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Neptune has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Quinn has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The lighter actuation force of the Neptune allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Quinn offers a more tactile and pronounced typing experience. While the actuation and bottom out forces may vary between the two switches, users can still achieve similar results by selecting a switch that aligns with their preferred weight preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Quinn is the shorter of the two switches. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but it can affect the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a faster response time may opt for the Quinn with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Neptune with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, but both can provide a satisfactory typing or gaming experience depending on individual preferences.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched and muted profile, providing a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deep and resonant sound, adding character and immersion to each keystroke. The Neptune's sound is more subdued and thocky, while the Quinn's sound is bassy and resonant, resulting in a different auditory experience for the user. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, whether one prefers a softer, quieter sound or a rich, immersive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is buttery and frictionless, offering a smooth and almost gummy typing experience that resembles chewing on mochi or tapioca pearls. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy and bouncy, providing a responsive and lively feel with rebound when pressed. Both switches offer polished finishes that result in sleek typing experiences with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Neptune's feel is more buttery and gummy, while the Quinn's feel is snappy and bouncy, catering to different preferences for typing sensation.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Neptune provides a low-pitched and muted sound with a buttery and frictionless feel, while the Quinn offers a deep and resonant sound with a snappy and bouncy feel. Depending on whether one prioritizes a refined, almost textured typing experience or a rich, immersive sound profile, both switches provide options for users to customize their mechanical keyboard based on their preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it's important to take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light and almost frictionless keystroke with a unique matte feel, then the TTC Neptune with its innovative internal structure would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a crisp and tactile typing feedback accompanied by a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn switch with its specially designed nylon housing would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience (TTC Neptune) or a precise and tactile feedback with immersive sound (Gateron Quinn).
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