TTC Neptune vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Neptune, a linear switch, is renowned for its innovative internal structure that delivers a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subtle springy resistance. This switch offers a "matte" feel that makes every keystroke a pleasure, while maintaining a muted sound profile for a refined ambiance. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, provides a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility, resulting in crisp and acute clacks. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences - the Neptune for its buttery and gummy feel, and the Taro for its neutral and buttery attributes. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and Jwick Taro switches provide unique characteristics to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deep and muted sound, while the Taro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharp, higher-pitched sound. The use of POM in the Neptune provides a unique sound that differs from the crispness of the Taro's polycarbonate. However, both materials offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Neptune uses polycarbonate which results in a sharper and crisper sound, while the Taro utilizes nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, contrasting with the softer nature of nylon which absorbs more sound and creates a duller tone. These differences in material highlight how the bottom housing can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, offering a variety of options for keyboard enthusiasts based on their preferences.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Neptune and Taro switches, both provide a range of sound profiles and feels that cater to different preferences. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch allow for distinct characteristics to be felt when pressing down and letting go of a key. While the Neptune's POM top and polycarbonate bottom offer a unique sound experience, the Taro's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom provide their own set of qualities. Ultimately, both switches offer a diverse range of options for users looking to customize their keyboard sound and feel.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has an actuation force of 41 grams, making it light, while its bottom out force is 50 grams. In comparison, the Jwick Taro tactile switch does not have an exact actuation force listed, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Neptune may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Taro provides a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user values a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, with the Neptune being slightly longer than the Taro. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Taro for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Neptune. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile. These features contribute to a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience, perfect for users who prefer a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Neptune emphasizing a more subdued and bass-heavy tone, while the Taro provides a moderate and versatile sound experience. Ultimately, the sound preference between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Neptune offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. These qualities create a textured pleasure while typing, with a smooth and effortless keystroke that minimizes resistance. Conversely, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery and stepped, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with a mild tactile feedback. Users can expect a comfortable and cozy typing experience with the Taro, thanks to its unique tactile sensation and smooth keystroke. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Neptune emphasizing a more frictionless and polished feel, while the Taro provides a softer and more stepped typing experience. Deciding between these switches will depend on individual preferences for tactility and typing feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Neptune provides a unique matte feel with a muted and thocky sound profile, ideal for users seeking a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro offers a cozy and snappy typing feel with a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Whether you prefer the ultralight and textured pleasure of the Neptune or the medium-level tactility and crisp clacks of the Taro, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance for quick and effortless typing, the TTC Neptune with its light bottom out force of 50 grams might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy, medium-level of tactility with a cozy typing experience, the Jwick Taro with a bottom out force of 67 grams could be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched, muted sound and a buttery, gummy, or frictionless feel, the TTC Neptune is your go-to. Conversely, if you lean towards a more neutral sound and a buttery or stepped feel, the Jwick Taro might be more appealing. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should be based on your personal typing preferences for both sound and feel.
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