TTC Neptune vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and SP-Star RedBlue both offer unique characteristics worth exploring. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a springy resistance that resembles chewy treats like mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch boasts a matte feel, offering a textured pleasure with every keystroke, while maintaining a muted sound signature for a refined ambiance. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches are designed for those who prefer a medium-light typing feel, with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. While the Neptune is characterized as 'buttery,' 'gummy,' and 'subdued,' the RedBlue is labeled as 'neutral,' 'mild,' and 'thocky.' 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
57g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star RedBlue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. Despite their similarities in housing material, the Neptune is noted for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the RedBlue, which produces a clear and resonant sound. This distinction in sound quality may be attributed to other factors such as the design and construction of the switches.
One significant difference between the Neptune and the RedBlue lies in their respective top housings. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the Neptune is described as having a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the RedBlue produces a sharper and clearer sound. This variation in sound may be due to differences in the thickness or design of the top housing, impacting the acoustics of the switches. On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches share the same polycarbonate material, resulting in a consistent sharper and crisper sound profile when compared to other housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of a switch. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star RedBlue ensures a consistent sharp and resonant sound quality. However, the Neptune's specific design results in a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the sharper sound of the RedBlue. Understanding how different materials impact the sound and feel of a switch is essential for enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience. Whether opting for the Neptune or the RedBlue, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Neptune has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the RedBlue has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly heavier. The lighter actuation force of the Neptune may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for longer sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the RedBlue could provide a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Overall, the Neptune offers a lighter typing experience, while the RedBlue offers a slightly heavier touch, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the RedBlue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune switch. The Neptune switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the RedBlue switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke depth for some users. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the RedBlue switch offering a slightly longer distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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, both the TTC Neptune and SP-Star RedBlue switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Neptune is further described as having a muted and subdued sound, creating a softer and quieter typing experience, while the RedBlue is mentioned to have a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Neptune switch is renowned for its buttery and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It is also described as having a gummy feel when bottoming out, likened to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is characterized as offering a mild and polished feel, giving a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and approachable typing feel, catering to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, both the TTC Neptune and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that combines a smooth glide with a springy resistance, resulting in a textured pleasure with muted sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound, along with a mild and polished feel for smooth key travel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, but rest assured that both options offer quality and satisfaction in their own right.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, you would want to opt for the TTC Neptune if you value an ultralight typing experience with a smooth, almost frictionless glide and a muted sound profile. The Neptune's unique "matte" feel and swift, effortless typing make it a standout choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue switch would be more fitting. The RedBlue switch offers a relatively low-pitched sound and a polished typing feel for a more gentle and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches would depend on your preference for typing feel and sound profile, so consider these factors when making your decision.
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