TTC Neptune vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4Tx mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with a decision between a linear switch and a tactile switch, each offering unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, almost frictionless glide coupled with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This results in a textured pleasure with every keystroke, creating a matte feel that is both polished and subdued. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a blend of deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out and whisper-quiet topping out, providing a satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. While the Neptune offers an ultralight and muted typing experience, the U4Tx combines bassy and sharp elements for a refined sound profile. 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
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted compared to the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile also due to its softness. While the materials used in the top and bottom housings differ for each switch, they both aim to provide a unique and satisfying sound profile for keyboard enthusiasts.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the TTC Neptune switch allows for a clearer and more resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing provides a deep and rich sound profile that is softer in nature. Additionally, the bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune offering a sharper bottom-out sound, while the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx contributes to a deep and soft bottom-out sound experience.
While the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer different sound profiles and characteristics, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience for users. The unique qualities of POM and polycarbonate in the Neptune contribute to a pleasing and resonant sound profile, while the Gazzew blend in the U4Tx delivers a rich and deep sound experience. Whether you prefer a deeper and muted sound profile or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches offer distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that the Neptune is the lighter option. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch in comparison to the U4Tx, which has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. The lighter actuation force of the Neptune may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the U4Tx could provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the option that best fits their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that the Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the U4Tx's 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, the Neptune offers a slightly longer key press experience. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the U4Tx may be the better option due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a slightly deeper key press may find the Neptune to be more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results and the choice between the two may come down to personal preference for travel distance.
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 U4Tx 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, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound profile, creating a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a bassy and muted sound, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, offering a more pleasant typing experience for users.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its buttery, gummy, and frictionless keystroke experience, offering a smooth and almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance that makes each keystroke a textured pleasure. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump with a strong and crisp feedback intensity, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. Both switches prioritize a comfortable and satisfying typing experience for users, each with its unique feel and characteristics.
In conclusion, while the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches aim to provide users with a premium typing experience. The Neptune excels in offering a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a harmonious balance, while the U4Tx impresses with a refined sound profile and a sharp tactile bump. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches promise to deliver a high-quality typing experience that will satisfy newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider the following: If you prioritize a light touch and a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a muted sound profile, opt for the Neptune. Its unique "matte" feel and swift key response make it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force with a sharp tactile bump and a clean, refined sound profile characterized by a deep "thock" when bottoming out, then the U4Tx may be the switch for you. Its combination of the best qualities of the U4T and U4 switches offers a luxurious and acoustically pleasing typing experience. Ultimately, your preference for key feel, bottom out force, and sound profile will determine whether the Neptune or U4Tx is the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
