TTC Neptune vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Neptune and KTT Strawberry both offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and almost frictionless typing sensation that is akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch offers an unparalleled "matte" feel, making each keystroke a textured pleasure, while also being ultralight for swift and effortless typing. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is favored for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, housed in an attractive pink and clear casing. While both switches share qualities like low-pitched sound and frictionless operation, they each bring their own set of attributes to the table. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the KTT Strawberry, we see that both switches feature polycarbonate in their bottom housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Neptune differs in its top housing material, which is POM. POM housings create a deeper and more muted sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This contrast in top housing materials results in a different acoustic experience for each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the TTC Neptune and the KTT Strawberry, both switches share the characteristic of polycarbonate in their bottom housing. This common material contributes to a similar sharp, crisp sound profile and stiffness in both switches. However, the Neptune stands out with its use of POM in the top housing, creating a unique and deeper sound compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate top housing. This distinction in top housing materials highlights the importance of housing material in determining the overall sound profile and feel of a switch.
In terms of construction, the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of a switch. While both the Neptune and Strawberry utilize polycarbonate in their bottom housing for a consistent sharp sound profile, the choice of POM versus polycarbonate in the top housing creates a distinction in the overall acoustic experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will impact the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. These differences emphasize the importance of housing material in customizing the sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the KTT Strawberry's 43 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, the Neptune has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Strawberry's 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down. The difference in weight between these two switches may appeal to different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions or gaming may prefer the Neptune, while those who want a stronger push feel for a more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing feel and overall experience for the user.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Despite the minimal 0.2 mm difference, this variance could still impact the typing experience for users seeking specific characteristics in their keyboard switches. With the Neptune having a slightly shorter travel distance, it may cater more towards individuals looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Strawberry's slightly longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more deliberate key press with added depth. Both switches fall within the spectrum of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users interested in a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Neptune and the Strawberry will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 per 10 switches.
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, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched and muted sound profile, offering a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. The Neptune's subdued and thocky sound signature adds a unique depth to each keystroke, creating a satisfying auditory ambiance. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is primarily characterized by its low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to other switches. Both switches offer a quiet typing experience that is suitable for various environments, but the Neptune's additional descriptors suggest a more diverse and textured sound compared to the Strawberry's singular low-pitched feature.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch stands out for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. The switch offers a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance that gives each keystroke a uniquely textured pleasure. The Neptune's ultralight construction ensures swift and effortless typing, while its polished finish minimizes friction and enhances key travel. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, emphasizing a smooth and refined typing sensation. Both switches provide a seamless and comfortable typing experience, with the Neptune offering a more varied tactile profile compared to the Strawberry's focus on smoothness.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Neptune and KTT Strawberry linear switches offer smooth and quiet typing experiences, they differ in their sound and feel characteristics. The Neptune provides a more diverse and textured sound profile with additional descriptors like subdued and thocky, creating a satisfying auditory experience. Its varied tactile qualities, such as gummy and mild, contribute to a uniquely pleasurable typing sensation. On the other hand, the Strawberry focuses on smoothness and refinement, offering a consistent and silky typing experience with descriptors like buttery and polished. Depending on personal preference for sound depth and tactile feedback, users can select either switch to achieve a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with slight variations in auditory and tactile qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for an ultralight switch with a unique "matte" feel and a muted sound signature, then the TTC Neptune linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Neptune's smooth, almost frictionless glide and springy resistance make typing a textured pleasure, perfect for those seeking a refined and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, then the KTT Strawberry linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. The Strawberry's attractive design, smooth actuation, and overall comfortable typing experience make it a solid option for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and priorities in terms of feel and sound.
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