TTC Neptune vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and TTC Silent Red both offer unique features and benefits to cater to different preferences. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and frictionless typing experience, akin to the springy resistance found in chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch offers a textured pleasure with an unparalleled "matte" feel, making every keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is renowned for its quiet operation, making it ideal for office or shared living space use. It also provides a seamless typing experience with a consistent feel from top to bottom, ensuring maximum comfort. While the Neptune excels in providing a tactile and refined typing experience, the Silent Red focuses on delivering a quiet and comfortable 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the TTC Silent Red, it is evident that the Neptune features a POM top housing while the Silent Red has a polycarbonate top housing. POM housings in the Neptune create a deeper and more muted sound profile, while polycarbonate in the Silent Red produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while POM offers a unique and pleasing sound experience. Despite their differences, both materials contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Neptune employs a polycarbonate bottom housing while the Silent Red uses a nylon bottom housing. Both polycarbonate and nylon have their own characteristics that impact the sound profile of the switches. Polycarbonate, as a stiffer plastic, creates a clear and resonant sound, whereas nylon, being a softer plastic, leads to a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between these materials ultimately comes down to the desired sound experience and feel when typing on the switches.
In terms of how the housing materials affect the typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite having different materials for the top and bottom housing, both the Neptune and the Silent Red offer a balance of qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Neptune or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Silent Red, both switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Neptune linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Silent Red. The Neptune requires 41 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Silent Red needs 45 grams to actuate and 63.5 grams to bottom out. The Neptune offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Red provides a medium-heavy push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback. Both switches have their own set of advantages, with the Neptune being lighter and the Silent Red being heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Neptune offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Silent Red. However, for those who prefer a quicker, more responsive feel, the Silent Red may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 provides a low-pitched, muted, subdued, and thocky sound profile, giving off a rich and satisfying typing experience that won't disturb those around you. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red focuses solely on being muted, ensuring a quiet and unobtrusive typing environment suitable for shared spaces like offices or living areas.
In terms of feel, both the Neptune and Silent Red switches share qualities of being buttery, mild, and polished, providing users with a smooth and effortless typing experience that is comfortable and approachable to most. Both switches offer a consistent and uniform feel throughout the keystroke, promoting a seamless typing sensation that can enhance productivity and typing comfort.
Overall, whether you choose the TTC Neptune or the TTC Silent Red, you can expect a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience with unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Neptune excels in providing a textured, ultra-light typing experience with a quieter sound profile, while the Silent Red focuses on delivering a smooth, consistent feel with maximum comfort. Ultimately, both switches offer top-notch performance and ergonomic design, ensuring a satisfying experience for newcomers and seasoned mechanical keyboard enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique typing experience with a matte feel and a low-pitched, muted sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. It offers a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance, making typing a textured pleasure. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and silent typing experience with a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Red linear switch would be the perfect fit. With a consistent feel and maximum comfort, these switches are ideal for office or shared living spaces. Consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, both switches offer distinctive benefits that cater to different preferences, so choose based on your individual needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
