TTC Neptune vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Neptune, a linear switch, and the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch, there are clear distinctions in their typing experiences. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless glide with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This unique combination offers a textured pleasure with every keystroke, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a matte feel and muted sound signature. On the other hand, the Sage switches from Kailh offer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness that invigorates the typing process. While the Neptune excels in offering a buttery and gummy typing experience, the Sage delivers a crunchy and sharp feel. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and Kailh Sage switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and feel. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Sage's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Interestingly, both switches utilize polycarbonate in their bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer and resonant sound profile. However, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing is likely to produce a similar sound to its top housing, while the Sage's nylon bottom housing may create a deeper and fuller sound compared to its top housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in a clear housing is more common and is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Both the Neptune and Sage benefit from the translucent properties of polycarbonate in their top housing, allowing for an enhanced visual experience with RGB lighting. However, the choice of nylon for the Sage's bottom housing provides a different typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. The split between housing materials in these switches allows for a unique combination of qualities that affect both the sound and feel of typing on each switch.
Overall, while the Neptune and Sage switches have some differences in their housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles. The utilization of different materials in the top and bottom housing of each switch allows for a balanced blend of qualities that impact the overall sound and feel of typing. Whether it be the deeper and muted sound of the Neptune's POM top housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the Sage's polycarbonate top housing, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch reveals some interesting differences. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams, which is on the lighter side, while the Sage's actuation force is unknown. The Neptune also has a bottom out force of 50 grams, still relatively light compared to the Sage's 70-gram bottom out force. This means that the Sage requires a heavier push to fully press the key compared to the Neptune. When looking at weight considerations, those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Neptune for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a stronger, more substantial typing experience may opt for the Sage. Overall, the Neptune offers a lighter typing experience, whereas the Sage provides a heavier push feel for those who prefer it.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which can be preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Neptune offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Sage, which may feel more satisfying to some users. However, those who prefer a shorter and more abrupt key press may lean towards the Sage. Overall, both switches offer relatively similar travel distances, so users can expect comparable results from either option.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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, creating a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as having a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. While the Neptune provides a quiet and bass-heavy typing experience, the Sage offers a sharp and distinct clickiness that may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Neptune switch is celebrated for its buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke feel. This switch combines a smooth glide with springy resistance, providing a unique textured pleasure with each keystroke. Conversely, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel with a strong tactile bump. The Sage switch's heavy weight adds to the tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing sensation for those who prefer a firm actuation force.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune provides a quiet and ultralight typing experience with a smooth, matte feel, while the Sage offers a distinct and crunchy sound with invigorating tactility. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a light bottom out force and muted sound, the Neptune switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force, distinct clicky feedback, and a crunchy sound profile, the Sage switch would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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