TTC Neptune vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Neptune and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Neptune is celebrated for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, akin to enjoying chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. On the other hand, the Smoothie stands out for its affordability without compromising on quality, offering a thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness. While the Neptune boasts a muted and refined sound signature, the Smoothie provides a creamy and silky 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and Gateron Smoothie both feature POM top housings, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to other materials. This similarity in housing material means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either of these switches. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. On the other hand, the Smoothie features a POM bottom housing, which maintains the pleasing and unique sound profile but leans towards the deeper and more muted side.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the TTC Neptune allows for a clear and translucent appearance, which is especially advantageous for switches with RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of the switch, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize the look of their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie's POM bottom housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal as the translucent polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune. However, both switches still offer a unique typing experience with their respective housing materials contributing to their sound profiles.
When it comes to typing feel, the differences in the housing materials of the Neptune and the Smoothie become apparent. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune will result in a sharper and crisper typing experience compared to the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound when a key is released, so the POM top housing of both switches will result in a deeper and more muted sound profile upon key release. Overall, while both switches offer a unique typing experience, the choice between the Neptune and the Smoothie will depend on whether you prioritize a sharper typing feel with clearer sound or a deeper, more muted sound profile.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch have some key differences. The Neptune has a slightly higher actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, the Neptune has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie is unknown. The Neptune is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie may provide a slightly heavier actuation force, but without knowing the bottom out force, it is hard to determine which switch is overall heavier. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers for faster response times. The Neptune is slightly longer than the Smoothie, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. However, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Neptune and the Smoothie will depend on personal preference for the feel and responsiveness of the switch during use.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 unique combination offers a refined typing experience with a soft, almost bass-heavy tone that minimizes noise, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch also boasts a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound signature, providing a deep and satisfying sound when typing. While both switches have similarities in their sound profiles, the Neptune leans more towards a neutral and muted tone, whereas the Smoothie emphasizes the thocky and subdued aspects, offering a rich sound experience to users.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing sensation. The switch offers a smooth, almost frictionless keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing feel reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. This polished and refined finish enhances the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel texturally pleasing. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation, with the Neptune focusing on a polished and frictionless experience, while the Smoothie emphasizes the creamy and silky aspects, giving users a luxurious typing feel.
Overall, both the TTC Neptune and Gateron Smoothie linear switches offer exceptional qualities that cater to users' preferences for sound and feel. While the Neptune provides a unique matte feel with a muted and neutral sound profile, the Smoothie delivers a thocky and silky typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with their smooth and lightweight touch. Ultimately, choosing between the Neptune and Smoothie will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a unique typing experience that combines smoothness with a springy resistance, the TTC Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a thocky sound signature, smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie might be the better fit for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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