TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch for your mechanical keyboard, you are met with two unique options catering to distinct preferences in typing experience. The TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that offers a smooth, almost frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. This switch provides a matte feel to every keystroke, making typing a textured pleasure while maintaining a muted sound signature for a refined ambiance. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While both switches have their own appeal, each catering to different typing preferences, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in tactile feedback and sound profile. 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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Red Panda switches offer different sound profiles and feel due to their unique properties. The Neptune's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate material is more commonly used in switches with clear housings, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing offer contrasting sound profiles, with the polycarbonate producing a sharper sound and the nylon creating a fuller and deeper sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Red Panda switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings impact the sound and feel of the switches differently. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, with the nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda contributing to a fuller sound profile. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when the key is released, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Red Panda delivering a crisper sound compared to the POM top housing of the Neptune.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Red Panda switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. While the Neptune offers a more muted and deeper sound with its POM top housing, the Red Panda provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the sharper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preferred sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that the Neptune is lighter in both aspects. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Neptune requires a lighter touch to register a keystroke and to bottom out the key compared to the Red Panda. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neptune may be the better option, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Neptune. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the Red Panda for its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Neptune. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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, neutral, subdued sound signature that minimizes noise and offers a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. While both switches offer a unique auditory experience, the Neptune leans towards a more subtle and subdued sound profile, while the Red Panda gives a more pronounced and satisfying thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is characterized by its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished attributes, offering a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a springy resistance similar to chewy treats like mochi. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. While both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, the Neptune's blend of buttery and gummy sensations sets it apart from the Red Panda's milder touch.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune excels in providing a muted and textured typing experience with a springy resistance, while the Red Panda delivers a satisfying thocky sound alongside a mild tactile feel. Whether you prefer a more subtle and frictionless typing experience like the Neptune or a deeper and more pronounced sound like the Red Panda, both switches cater to varying preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on their unique characteristics. If you prioritize a light actuation force and a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a muted sound profile, opt for the TTC Neptune. Its "matte" feel and swift keystrokes make for a refined and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda is the way to go. It offers a balanced typing feel that falls into the safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you value a unique tactile experience or a smooth, light typing feel.
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