TTC Neptune vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often narrows down between the TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, each offering distinct characteristics to cater to varying typing preferences. The TTC Neptune, a linear switch, is celebrated for its innovative internal design, providing a smooth and almost frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy mochi. Its ultralight weight allows for rapid, effortless typing, and its muted thocky sound signature delivers an enjoyable auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, a tactile switch, presents a luxurious typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and a rich sound profile highlighted by the deep thock of its bottoming out. This switch offers a unique balance of subtlety and feedback, making it ideal for users who appreciate an audible cue while typing. Each switch has its merits; if you prefer a seamless and swift typing experience, the TTC Neptune may be your go-to, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is perfect for those who favor tactile feedback and a refined 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

TTC Neptune Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, we observe distinct characteristics in their top housings that contribute to their individual sound profiles. The Neptune utilizes a POM top housing, which is recognized for producing a deeper, more muted sound that many users find appealing. This distinctive sound quality can be attributed to the inherent properties of POM, which excels in creating a pleasing acoustics experience. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing—often referred to as "boba plastic"—which similarly aims for a rich and deep sound profile. While the sound profiles of both switches lean towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the materials themselves differ, suggesting that users may experience variations in both acoustics and tactile feedback during use.

The bottom housings of both switches further contribute to their overall auditory characteristics, highlighting both similarities and differences in material choices. The Neptune employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that brings clarity and resonance to its key presses. This gives users a crisp auditory feedback, especially suited for those who prefer a more defined sound. Meanwhile, the U4Tx RGB's bottom housing is also made from the proprietary Gazzew blend, maintaining the rich and deep sound profile established by the top housing. This similarity in acoustic goals allows for a unified sound experience in the U4Tx RGB, while the Neptune's polycarbonate design enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound, ultimately offering contrasting yet complementary experiences between the two.

The way these housing materials interact during use further illuminates the distinct auditory experiences of each switch. In the TTC Neptune, the softened POM top housing and the crisp polycarbonate bottom combine to create a sound experience where each material influences distinct phases of the key press. This means that while the bottom-out sound is bright and clear, the release offers a more subdued and deeper tone. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB's consistent use of the Gazzew blend in both top and bottom housings propagates the same rich depth throughout the key stroke, reinforcing a coherent sound experience from bottom to top. Thus, while they may have different individual materials, the overall sound experience can be similar in depth, either through the combination of contrasting materials in the Neptune or the uniformity of the Gazzew blend in the U4Tx RGB.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Neptune boasts a light actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, though its actuation force remains unspecified. This suggests that while the Neptune is easier to press, requiring less force to register a keypress, the U4Tx RGB offers a more substantial feel at bottoming out. As such, those who enjoy a firm push feel might gravitate towards the Gazzew switch. Overall, the TTC Neptune is the lighter option here, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB presents a heavier alternative, suitable for users seeking a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, the Neptune features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the U4Tx RGB measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This makes the Neptune the longer of the two options, catering to users who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses, which can provide a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx RGB may appeal to gamers and those who favor quicker response times, as it allows for more rapid key actuation. Both switches offer a balance between travel distance preferences—if you're looking for a more abrupt actuation, the U4Tx RGB will meet that demand, whereas the Neptune offers a more substantial feedback for those who enjoy a deeper feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch stands out with its unique muted and thocky sound profile. It produces a low-pitched thock that delivers a satisfying auditory experience, akin to a deep thud when keys are bottomed out. This switch's subdued nature makes it ideal for environments where noise is a concern, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone without being overly jarring. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch is known for its refined sound and rich auditory character, blending the deep thock from bottoming out with a quieter topping out. This results in a smooth transition between key presses, contributing to a luxurious and more premium sound experience. While the Neptune is more geared towards a thocky sensation, both switches are designed to reduce typical mechanical noise, which may yield somewhat similar auditory experiences depending on the board and keycap materials used.

In terms of feel, the Neptune linear switch provides a unique typing experience characterized by its buttery, frictionless glide, making key presses feel exceptionally smooth and effortless. Its springy resistance adds a delightful sensation reminiscent of chewy mochi or tapioca pearls, enhancing the overall typing engagement without feeling overly stiff. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch is engineered to provide a sharp tactile bump, delivering a noticeable response with each keystroke. While specific descriptors for the feel of the U4Tx are not provided, it can be inferred that the tactile feedback is refined, offering a contrasting typing experience to that of the Neptune. The Neptune’s descriptive qualities suggest a fluid and soft touch, while the U4Tx likely emphasizes a pronounced tactile sensation.

In conclusion, while both the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch cater to distinct typing preferences, they each excel in providing a unique auditory and tactile experience. The Neptune shines with its subdued, thocky sound and ultra-smooth feel, whereas the U4Tx offers a more luxurious audio profile and tactile feedback. For users seeking either low noise or rich sound, the Neptune serves well, while those who appreciate a more tactile and luxurious typing feel might gravitate towards the U4Tx. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, but both can deliver satisfying typing experiences.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter keystroke and a smoother, almost frictionless typing experience, the Neptune is an excellent option for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force allows for quick, effortless typing, making it particularly suited for fast-paced environments like gaming or for those who type for extended periods without discomfort. The muted thocky sound signature adds to its appeal for a discreet yet satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you appreciate a medium-heavy tactile bump paired with a deeper sound profile, the U4Tx RGB might be the right choice. With its 65-gram bottom-out force, it delivers a more substantial feel that many find gratifying, especially for typists who enjoy the tactile feedback and rich sound associated with each keystroke. This switch is ideal if you like a balance of noise and tactility, making it suitable for both work and casual typing. Ultimately, consider how you prioritize weight, sound, and tactile feedback in your typing experience to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Neptune Linear

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more