TTC Neptune vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and the Durock White Lotus stand out as top choices in their respective categories. The Neptune is a linear switch known for its innovative internal structure that provides a unique typing experience with a smooth, frictionless glide and a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights. In contrast, the White Lotus is a tactile switch designed for the discerning typist, offering a delicate tactility perfect for extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. While the Neptune emphasizes a "matte" feel and muted sound signature, the White Lotus features a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects. Both switches cater to different preferences and needs, with the Neptune excelling in swift, effortless typing and the White Lotus offering a tranquil typing experience with mesmerizing illumination. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
41g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Durock White Lotus offer different sound profiles and feels for mechanical keyboard switches. The POM top housing of the Neptune creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the modified PC & UPE Blend top housing of the White Lotus provides a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the White Lotus elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound profiles is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the softness of nylon.
Although the top housings of the Neptune and White Lotus switches differ in material and sound profiles, both switches utilize polycarbonate in their bottom housings. This means that they will both have a sharper and crisper sound profile when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. However, the impact of the top housing material will be more pronounced when you release a key, with the POM top housing of the Neptune offering a unique sound experience compared to the modified PC & UPE Blend top housing of the White Lotus. Overall, the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of aesthetics, the Neptune's clear polycarbonate bottom housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, while the White Lotus's nylon bottom housing does not offer this feature. Both switches provide a different tactile experience due to the properties of their housing materials, with the Neptune's stiffer polycarbonate creating a clearer and resonant sound, and the White Lotus's softer nylon absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile, tactile feel, and design aesthetics.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 56 grams. This means that the Neptune switch will feel lighter to type on, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming where fatigue may be a concern. In contrast, the White Lotus switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces. However, both switches fall within the light to medium-light range, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and performance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The comparison between the travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch reveals that the Neptune has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the White Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both distances fall within the range of traditional switch travel distances, with the Neptune being on the shallower end and the White Lotus offering a bit more depth. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Neptune, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the White Lotus. In general, selecting a switch with a travel distance that aligns with your preferences will result in a more satisfying typing or gaming 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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 offers a low-pitched and muted sound signature, providing a bass-heavy, mellow tone that is softer and quieter to the ears. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch also boasts a low-pitched sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches provide a neutral sound, suitable for various environments and preferences. When it comes to feel, the Neptune switch delivers a buttery and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. In contrast, the White Lotus switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a gentle typing experience with low resistance, ideal for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Neptune excelling in a textured, matte typing feel and the White Lotus offering a delicate tactility and vibrant RGB lighting effects. Whether you choose the Neptune or White Lotus switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience based on your personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you are looking for a switch with a smooth and frictionless typing experience, opt for the TTC Neptune. The light bottom out force of 50 grams and the low-pitched, muted sound profile make it ideal for swift and refined typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate tactility with gentle resistance, the Durock White Lotus is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 56 grams and features like easy-to-press keys and subtle sound signature, the White Lotus offers a tranquil typing experience suitable for extended use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the ambiance you desire while typing. So, whether you prefer the matte feel of the Neptune or the luminous RGB lighting effects of the White Lotus, both switches offer unique features tailored to enhance your typing experience.
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