TTC Neptune vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that grants it a smooth, frictionless glide while still providing a springy resistance akin to chewy delicacies like mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch's "matte" feel offers a textured pleasure with every keystroke, ensuring swift and effortless typing accompanied by a refined, low-pitched sound signature. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) is renowned for its exceptionally quiet operation and pillowy feel. This switch provides a creamy and buttery typing experience that is both smooth and muted in sound. While the Neptune excels in its gummy and subdued qualities, the Silent Frozen (V2) offers a feathery and subtle typing experience. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and ability to produce clear and resonant sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetic considerations, the Neptune and Silent Frozen (V2) are quite similar due to their use of the same housing material.
However, where the Neptune differs from the Silent Frozen (V2) is in its POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. This difference in sound profile can lead to a unique typing experience for users who prefer a softer and more subtle sound when typing. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the overall sound profile with its clarity and resonance. This results in a more distinct and pronounced typing sound for users looking for a livelier typing experience.
Overall, while both the TTC Neptune and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) share similar characteristics in their housing materials, such as the sharp and crisp sound profile of polycarbonate, they also offer distinct typing experiences due to the differences in their top housing materials. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent Frozen (V2)'s polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 41 grams compared to the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch with 39 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neptune requires 50 grams while the Silent Frozen (V2) only needs 43 grams. Both switches fall into the lighter weight category, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Neptune offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may provide a more substantial typing feel for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Silent Frozen (V2) which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the Neptune offers a slightly longer distance for key presses, the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a slightly shorter travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for quicker response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Neptune offering a slightly deeper keypress experience while the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a slightly quicker response. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences in key press depth.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 combination of characteristics creates a refined and unobtrusive typing experience, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is also praised for its thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound, emphasizing a deep, rich, and satisfying typing sound that minimizes noise. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory ambiance, with the Silent Frozen (V2) offering a slightly more cushioned sound compared to the Neptune.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is often described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished. These qualities result in a smooth, textured typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless key presses, making every keystroke a pleasure. The Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. This blend of characteristics offers a silky, light typing sensation with reduced finger fatigue and a gentle key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Silent Frozen (V2) offering a slightly lighter touch compared to the Neptune.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Neptune provides a more textured and springy resistance feel along with a slightly muted sound, the Silent Frozen (V2) focuses on a smoother and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches excel in providing a balanced and pleasing typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a unique typing experience with a smooth, almost frictionless glide and a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi, the Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. Its ultralight bottom out force of 50 grams ensures swift and effortless typing, while its low-pitched and muted sound profile keeps noise to a minimum. On the other hand, if you value an extremely quiet sound profile with a pillowy feel, the Silent Frozen (V2) with its lighter 43-gram bottom out force might be more to your liking. This switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prefer the distinctive matte feel of the Neptune or the creamy sensation of the Silent Frozen (V2) switch.
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