TTC Neptune vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, one must take into account their unique qualities. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a delightful springy resistance akin to chewy treats like mochi. This switch offers a muted sound signature and swift typing due to its ultralight design, making every keystroke a textured pleasure. On the other hand, the U4 from Gazzew boasts a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation. Its whisper-quiet sound profile adds a touch of subtlety to its tactile feedback. While the Neptune offers a buttery and gummy feel, the U4 provides a sharper tactile sensation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Neptune's POM top housing provides a deep and muted sound, while the U4's proprietary blend top housing offers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In terms of bottom housing, the Neptune's polycarbonate material creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, whereas the U4's Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile but with a softer touch.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4 aim to provide a pleasing sound experience for users. While the Neptune uses POM for its top housing and polycarbonate for its bottom housing, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housings. This allows for consistent sound qualities throughout the switch, ensuring a harmonious and immersive typing experience for users.
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4, it's important to consider how each material affects the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Neptune's POM and polycarbonate housings create a unique blend of deep, muted tones and sharp, crisp sounds, while the U4's Gazzew blend offers a rich, deep sound profile with a softer touch. Both switches have their own distinctive characteristics that appeal to different preferences, whether you value a more muted sound or a softer feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and which sound profile aligns best with your typing style.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a higher bottom out force of 62 grams. The Neptune switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the U4 switch provides a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier forces, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push sensation while typing. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback, but the Neptune is lighter overall, while the U4 is heavier, providing users with distinct options based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Neptune. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer quicker response times. Gamers in particular may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the U4 for faster keystrokes during gameplay. However, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Neptune. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, both the TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4 switches are described as having a muted quality, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The Neptune offers a low-pitched, subdued, and thocky sound profile, while the U4 provides a low-pitched and muted sound. They both aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, allowing for a more refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance.
In terms of feel, the Neptune is praised for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience, providing users with smooth and effortless keystrokes that feel almost like bottoming-out on a gummy bear. On the other hand, the U4 is known for its sharp tactile bump, delivering a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each keypress. Despite their differences in tactile feedback, both switches prioritize a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a smoother, almost frictionless typing experience like the Neptune, or a sharp and exhilarating tactile feedback like the U4, both switches aim to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize feel or sound in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a light and effortless typing feel with a smooth glide and muted sound, the Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation and whisper-quiet sound, the U4 could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a unique "matte" feel with swift typing or a distinct tactile feedback with a gentle bottom-out sensation in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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