TTC Neptune vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches are two options worth exploring. The Neptune is known for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy treats like mochi. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out for its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, offering typists a smooth and creamy feel akin to its namesake dessert. While the Neptune boasts a muted sound signature and ultralight build for swift typing, the Vanilla Ice Cream delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound that sets it apart. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream have distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Neptune features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend top housing, known for its high-pitched and clacky sound signature. In terms of bottom housings, the Neptune's polycarbonate material creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK material offers smooth, clacky, and durable switches. These differences in housing materials result in varying sound experiences for users of each keyboard.
Despite their differences, the Neptune and Vanilla Ice Cream share some similarities in their housing materials. Both keyboards utilize innovative materials that contribute to the overall quality of the switches. The POM top housing of the Neptune and the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream each offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Additionally, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune and the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream both provide durability and contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches. These similarities ensure that users can expect reliable performance from both keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Neptune and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream will come down to personal preferences in sound and typing experience. The Neptune's POM top housing offers a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend top housing provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. In terms of bottom housings, the Neptune's polycarbonate material creates a sharper sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK material offers smooth and durable switches. Both keyboards showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to choose the option that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Neptune linear switch to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. The slight difference in force between the two switches may not be noticeable to some users, as both fall within the light category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find both of these switches suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel, the Neptune may be the better choice with its slightly higher bottom out force. Overall, both switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal force required for actuation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying depth for those who prefer a bit more feedback when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may feel more precise and quicker to some users. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the Neptune being slightly longer than the Vanilla Ice Cream.
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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 offers a low-pitched and muted experience, creating a refined and subdued typing environment. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a sharper and crisper auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Neptune will deliver a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Vanilla Ice Cream will produce a cleaner and sharper sound that stands out from the crowd.
In terms of feel, both the TTC Neptune and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience. The Neptune provides a sense of springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a creamy feel that glides effortlessly under your fingertips. With both switches being associated with a buttery sensation, typists can expect a seamless and uniform keystroke experience that minimizes resistance and maximizes comfort.
Overall, the TTC Neptune and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of both sound and feel. The Neptune stands out for its harmonious balance of a matte feel and muted sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a creamy typing experience with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide a luxurious and satisfying typing experience that is sure to delight mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that each switch offers. If you value a smoother and frictionless typing experience with a touch of springy resistance, the TTC Neptune with its matte feel might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy and buttery typing sensation with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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