TTC Neptune vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Neptune and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer their own unique benefits. The TTC Neptune is praised for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, combined with a springy resistance that is likened to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch boasts a matte feel that makes every keystroke a textured pleasure, while also being ultralight for swift and effortless typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch utilizes POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature during typing. This switch offers a bouncy and neutral typing experience that is categorized as "Thocky". 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and Dareu Snow switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Neptune's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Snow's POK top housing provides a smooth, clacky, and durable switch experience. The POK material's increased wear resistance and shock resistance set it apart from the POM material, making it a top choice for those seeking longevity in their switches.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate housing to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, especially ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Snow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to distinct typing experiences, with the polycarbonate offering a clearer sound and the nylon creating a rounder sound.
Although the top and bottom housing materials of the Neptune and Snow switches vary, their impact on the overall typing experience is significant. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the Neptune and Snow switches may offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their housing materials, both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether a deeper, muted sound profile (Neptune) or a smooth, clacky sound with increased durability (Snow) is more appealing.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Neptune will require less force to trigger a keystroke, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neptune requires 50 grams compared to the Snow's 60 grams, meaning that the Snow provides a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Neptune is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Snow falls on the medium side in terms of force required. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Snow switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Neptune switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is seeking.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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. These characteristics contribute to a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience, perfect for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound signature, providing a deep and satisfying typing sound. Both switches deliver unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Neptune leaning towards a quieter and more understated sound, while the Snow offers a deeper and more pronounced typing sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. These qualities combine to create a smooth, effortless, and uniform keystroke sensation that is reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation when typing. While the Neptune focuses on a smooth and frictionless feel, the Snow offers a lively and rebounding tactile experience, catering to users who prefer a more responsive and bouncy feel while typing.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune excels in providing a muted and refined sound profile, coupled with a buttery and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow stands out with its deep and thocky sound signature, along with a bouncy and lively keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding typing sound, feel, and responsiveness. However, it is important to note that both switches provide high-quality typing experiences that will satisfy users seeking smooth, linear switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a unique matte feel, then the Neptune switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper sound signature and a bouncy, spring-like feedback sensation, the Snow switch might be more to your liking. Both switches offer their own distinct typing experiences, so evaluating your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force will help you make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between the Neptune and Snow switches comes down to your individual typing style and preferences.
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