TTC Neptune vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Neptune and the Durock Sea Glass are two remarkable linear mechanical keyboard switches with their unique features and characteristics. The Neptune is praised for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and frictionless typing experience akin to the sensation of chewy delights like mochi. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock offers a colorful selection with a dry, airy typing feel despite its 62g bottom-out force. While the Neptune exudes a "matte" feel and muted sound signature, the Sea Glass switches boast a weightlessness and uniquely hollow sound. Both switches offer a different typing experience, catering to individuals looking for a buttery and gummy feel in the Neptune or a feathery and easy-to-press sensation in the Sea Glass. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Durock Sea Glass both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which produces a brighter but not sharp sound. Despite these differences in sound, both housing materials provide a pleasing auditory experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing delivers a more pleasant and brighter sound. The differences in sound characteristics between the two switches can be attributed to the materials used in their bottom housings. Despite the variation in sound, both switches offer a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Durock Sea Glass play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While the Neptune utilizes POM and polycarbonate for its top and bottom housings respectively, the Sea Glass combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both top and bottom housings. The distinct qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall experience of using these switches, showcasing the importance of housing material selection in the design of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Neptune linear switch to the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is clear that the Neptune is the lighter option of the two. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams, while the Sea Glass has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Neptune slightly lighter. When it comes to bottom out force, the Neptune requires 50 grams of force, while the Sea Glass needs 62 grams, indicating that the Sea Glass is the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neptune would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Sea Glass provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force requirements. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, so while the force requirements differ, the overall feel of typing on these switches would be similar. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force in relation to typing comfort and experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune and the Durock Sea Glass linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.8mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be noted that both switches offer a standard amount of travel for a linear switch. This means that users can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress experiences from both switches. Their identical travel distances indicate that neither switch offers a longer or shorter distance for keypresses, resulting in a consistent typing experience for users who prefer either of these switches.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile. This means that it produces a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a softer and quieter sound compared to other switches, suitable for various environments. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch is currently unavailable, so it is recommended to test them to determine their auditory qualities based on personal preference and setup.
In terms of feel, both the TTC Neptune and Durock Sea Glass linear switches share descriptors such as frictionless and mild. This implies that both switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Sea Glass switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, highlighting its light actuation force and comfort for prolonged use. The Neptune, on the other hand, is characterized as buttery and gummy, emphasizing its smooth, fluid keystroke experience and unique tactile sensation.
In conclusion, while the TTC Neptune and Durock Sea Glass linear switches exhibit some similar subjective qualities such as being frictionless and mild, each switch offers a unique typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune provides a harmonious blend of smoothness and springy resistance with a muted sound signature, while the Sea Glass boasts a distinct dryness and airiness with a hollow sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Testing both switches on a personalized setup is recommended to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a unique matte typing experience with a smooth, frictionless glide, along with a muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune may be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a typing experience that exudes airiness, wispiness, and weightlessness, with a hollow sound signature, the Durock Sea Glass could be the ideal option. Both switches offer their own distinct advantages, so ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences and typing style.
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