TTC Neptune vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a significant role in crafting your ideal typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders in the linear switch category are the TTC Neptune and the HMX Twilight. The TTC Neptune is celebrated for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, frictionless glide paired with a delightful springiness akin to chewy mochi. Its ultralight weight allows for effortless typing, all while producing a muted, thocky sound signature that is pleasingly subdued. Conversely, the HMX Twilight impresses with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, ensuring a slightly quieter operation without sacrificing the clacky characteristics that many HMX fans adore. Each switch offers its own unique feel and auditory experience—the Neptune's buttery glide versus the Twilight's pronounced travel and sound. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Neptune and HMX Twilight switches present an interesting comparison, with both varieties contributing distinct sound profiles to the overall typing experience. The Neptune features a polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, known for its unique ability to produce a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. This contrasts with the Twilight's nylon top housing, which is a classic switch material recognized for creating a fuller sound. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively than the stiffer POM, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. While both top housings yield distinct sound characteristics, their differences highlight the significant impact material choice has on the overall acoustic quality of these switches.
Examining the bottom housings reveals further contrasts in sound generation between the two switches. The Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, allowing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its rigidity and translucency. This makes polycarbonate ideal for users who want a clear and resonant sound, particularly in setups that incorporate RGB lighting. Conversely, the Twilight opts for a nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the deeper, fuller sound profile characteristic of the entire switch. The nylon's softer nature means it absorbs more sound, complementing the tonal qualities of the nylon top housing and creating a cohesive auditory profile that is notably different from the Neptune's combination.
In conclusion, while the TTC Neptune and HMX Twilight switches utilize different materials for their tops and bottoms, they both showcase an interplay between softness and hardness that ultimately shapes their sound profiles. The Neptune's POM top and polycarbonate bottom work in tandem to create a crisp, clear sound, whereas the Twilight’s nylon configuration produces a deeper, fuller auditory experience. The varied compositions of the housing materials highlight that, regardless of their differences, both switches can deliver unique and desirable results, appealing to different preferences when it comes to typing feedback and sound. Ultimately, the understanding of each material's influence on sound can guide users in selecting the switch that best aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Neptune linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, both exhibit relatively similar actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Twilight requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams, while also featuring the same bottom out force of 50 grams as the Neptune. This means that while both switches have a bottom out force that feels consistent, the Neptune offers a marginally lighter touch when it comes to actuating a keystroke. This could make the Neptune more suitable for users looking for a lighter typing experience, ideal for long hours of work or gaming sessions. In contrast, those who prefer a more robust typing feel might lean towards the Twilight due to its slightly heavier actuation force. Overall, while both switches are considered light in terms of weight, the Neptune stands out for a slightly softer actuation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Twilight offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. Both switches are relatively close in terms of measurement, which means that users will experience similar tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys. However, the Neptune's shorter travel distance may appeal more to gamers or users seeking a quicker response time, as it allows for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Twilight, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more traditional and satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. In summary, the TTC Neptune is the shorter option, while the HMX Twilight is the longer, catering to different preferences in key feel and response.
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 HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 delivers a unique auditory experience characterized by its low-pitched and muted sound signature. The Neptune's thocky sound yields a deeper and richer tone, reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" or gentle "knock" when a key is pressed, offering a more subdued audio profile compared to sharper and more pronounced switches. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch features a longer travel distance, which results in a slightly quieter typing experience while still retaining the clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches. However, specifics about the exact sound profile of the Twilight remain uncertain.
In terms of feel, the Neptune stands out with its exceptionally smooth and almost frictionless typing experience. The internal structure of the switch creates a buttery and polished feel, allowing for fluid key presses that glide effortlessly. This "chewy" sensation is likened to the pleasurable experience of bottoming out on a trampoline or gummy bear, contributing to an engaging and springy typing ambiance. While precise information on the feel of the HMX Twilight is not provided, it is reasonable to expect that the extended travel distance may offer a distinctive typing sensation, although details regarding the smoothness or resistance levels are unknown.
In conclusion, while the TTC Neptune linear switch shines with its low-pitched, thocky sound and notably smooth, frictionless feel, the specifics of the HMX Twilight's auditory and tactile characteristics require further exploration. Both switches appear to cater to the needs of typists looking for a refined experience, but they may serve different user preferences depending on how sound and feel factor into one's typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Neptune and the HMX Twilight linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a remarkably smooth and light typing experience that feels almost weightless, the Neptune is an excellent choice. Its unique internal structure offers a delightful tactile sensation, akin to the soft bounce of mochi, along with a muted and thocky sound signature that makes it ideal for quieter environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you seek a switch that provides a longer travel distance and a slightly quieter sound while still retaining its unique characteristics, the Twilight might be better suited for you. The Twilight's design ensures a satisfying keystroke that combines a signature clacky feel with a more subdued audio profile, making it a fantastic option for those who enjoy feedback without excessive noise. Ultimately, consider the environments in which you'll be typing and what aspects—be it sound profile or typing feel—matter most to you to make the best choice between these two fantastic switches.
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