TTC Neptune vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and the TTC Silent Brown offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Neptune stands out for its innovative structure that provides a smooth, frictionless glide combined with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. This unique blend offers a textured pleasure with every keystroke and a muted sound profile that keeps the typing experience refined. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches prioritize comfort with a light-medium resistance and a satisfying tactile bump. Their muted sound profile adds to the overall polished feel of the switches. While both switches offer their own advantages, such as the Neptune's ultralight and effortless typing or the Silent Brown's comfortable typing experience, it all comes down to personal preference. 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
63.5g
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
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 TTC Silent Brown switches differ in terms of the top and bottom housings used. The Neptune features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Silent Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing also contributes to a sharper sound profile, whereas the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the TTC Neptune and TTC Silent Brown switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of POM in the Neptune leads to a pleasing and unique sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon materials in the Silent Brown create sharper or deeper tones, respectively. Both switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound produced by a mechanical keyboard switch, providing users with a range of options to suit their individual typing preferences.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The characteristics of the housing material are transferred to the sound and feel of pressing down on a key and letting go. The Neptune's POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing each contribute to the switch's sound profile, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switch. Understanding how different housing materials affect the typing experience can help users make informed decisions when selecting mechanical keyboard switches for their setups.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch both offer unique experiences with regards to actuation force and bottom out force. The Neptune has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neptune requires 50 grams of force while the Silent Brown requires 63.5 grams, making the Silent Brown a heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Neptune is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, providing a smoother typing experience, while the Silent Brown offers a more tactile and substantial feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements during use.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Neptune linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.8mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Neptune linear switch or the Silent Brown tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation depth. The travel distance of 3.8mm for both switches ensures a comfortable typing experience while providing a satisfying level of feedback.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 TTC Silent Brown switches are described as having a muted sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. The Neptune also has a low-pitched and subdued sound, creating a refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance, while the Silent Brown has a simple mention of being muted. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a low-pitched, subdued sound or just a generally muted sound.
When it comes to feel, both switches are described as having a buttery and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Neptune adds descriptors like gummy, frictionless, and mild, showcasing its unique combination of a textured pleasure with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights. On the other hand, the Silent Brown is also mild and offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and satisfying tactile bump. The decision between the two would involve choosing between the added qualities of gummy and frictionless in the Neptune or the straightforward comfortable typing experience in the Silent Brown.
In conclusion, both the TTC Neptune linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer a muted sound profile and a buttery, polished feel, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. The Neptune stands out with its unique combination of a textured pleasure and springy resistance, while the Silent Brown focuses on comfort with a satisfying tactile bump. Depending on whether you prefer the added qualities of gummy and frictionless in the Neptune or the straightforward comfort in the Silent Brown, you can make a choice that aligns with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their own unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light keypress with a smoother, almost frictionless feel that provides a textured pleasure while typing, the Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. Its low-pitched and muted sound profile adds to the refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier resistance with a satisfying rounded tactile bump, combined with a comfortable and muted sound profile, the Silent Brown may be more up your alley. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so ultimately, the decision comes down to what feels best to you as you type away on your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
