TTC Neptune vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and Haimu Viola Tricolor offer distinct typing experiences for users to consider. The TTC Neptune is known for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and almost frictionless glide, paired with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy treats like mochi. This unique combination gives the Neptune a "matte" feel, making keystrokes a textured pleasure. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches are praised for their thuddy and punchy sound profile, offering a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. While the Neptune is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', and 'Muted', the Viola Tricolor is described as 'Accented' and 'Bassy'. Both switches have their own appeal, with the Neptune providing a refined and effortless typing experience, and the Viola Tricolor offering a balance of tactility and 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches present interesting differences in sound profile and material characteristics. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound with higher pitches. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate is preferred for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound and nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Neptune and Viola Tricolor switches offer distinct sound profiles, the differences in material characteristics can be felt during key presses and releases. The impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Viola Tricolor absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and clearer sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, with POM creating a more muted sound compared to the crisper sound of polycarbonate.
In summary, the TTC Neptune and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches showcase how different housing materials can impact sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches prioritize sound quality, the choice between POM and polycarbonate for the top housing and between polycarbonate and nylon for the bottom housing results in distinct typing experiences. Understanding the qualities each housing material brings to the switch can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound profile and overall typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Neptune has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Viola Tricolor has a heavier force of 63.5 grams while the Neptune has a lighter force of 50 grams. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences. The lighter actuation force of the Neptune may appeal to those looking for a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long periods of use. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Viola Tricolor provides a more substantial typing feel, perfect for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for the typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile feel and actuation point when pressed. The travel distance of a switch can impact the typing experience, with a shorter distance potentially leading to faster keystrokes and a longer distance providing more feedback and resistance. In this case, both switches offer the same travel distance, ensuring consistent performance regardless of which one is chosen.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched and muted sound profile, offering a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides a thuddy and punchy sound that adds character to typing, striking a perfect balance between being tactile and not overly so. While the Neptune gives off a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a subdued and thocky sound, the Viola Tricolor offers deeper and richer bass tones. The sound of each switch is also influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keypress with a textured pleasure. Conversely, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The Viola Tricolor delivers a satisfying feedback without straying into the realm of being too tactile, providing a sharp sensation to users.
In conclusion, while the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a smooth, frictionless, and matte typing experience with a low-pitched and muted sound profile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch brings a tactile and invigorating typing sensation with a thuddy and punchy sound. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience for users. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, choosing between these two switches will ultimately come down to individual taste and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, your decision should primarily be based on your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth and effortless typing feel with a muted sound profile, opt for the Neptune. The lightweight actuation force of 50 grams and unique "matte" feel make it a great choice for swift typing sessions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a punchy sound profile and pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, the Viola Tricolor is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a balanced tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should align with your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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