TTC Neptune vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both offer unique experiences for typists. The Neptune is renowned for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and frictionless glide, while also offering a springy resistance that gives each keystroke a textured pleasure. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switches focus on delivering a smooth and high-pitched typing sensation, with a transparent top housing that allows for customizable RGB lighting. While the Neptune leans towards a muted and subdued sound signature, the WS Aurora Clear provides a polished and high-pitched 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both utilize unique housing materials to create distinct sound profiles. The Neptune's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the WS Aurora Clear's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound can greatly affect the typing experience for users looking for specific audio feedback. Additionally, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate top housing in the WS Aurora Clear allows for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic dimension to the keyboard.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Neptune and the WS Aurora Clear have differences that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing brings a sharper and crisper sound, similar to its top housing counterpart. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. This variation in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with each material offering a unique feel and sound profile to users.
Overall, while the TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear have differences in their housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housing materials allows users to feel and hear distinct characteristics when typing on the switches. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Neptune or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the WS Aurora Clear, both keyboards offer a variety of options for users seeking specific sound profiles in their typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches have a slightly heavier bottom out force, with the Neptune at 50 grams and the WS Aurora Clear at 63.5 grams. The Neptune switch would be suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be more suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force, with the Neptune being lighter and the WS Aurora Clear being medium-heavy.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Despite their similarities, the Neptune and Aurora Clear switches may have different characteristics that affect the overall typing experience, such as actuation force or smoothness. In terms of travel distance, however, both switches offer the same level of key travel for users.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile, providing a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is described as having a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp typing sound. The choice between them will greatly depend on personal preference, with the Neptune catering to those who prefer a softer, more bass-heavy sound, while the WS Aurora Clear appeals to individuals seeking a crisper, higher-pitched sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the TTC Neptune and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, they both offer a mild typing experience, suitable for a wide range of users. The polished finish of both switches ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing sensation. This similarity in feel indicates that users can expect a consistent and pleasant typing experience regardless of their choice between the two switches.
In conclusion, when comparing the subjective qualities of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, each switch offers its unique sound and feel profiles. The Neptune excels in providing a low-pitched and muted sound coupled with a buttery and frictionless feel, making it a great choice for those looking for a textured and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear stands out with its high-pitched sound and buttery, polished feel, appealing to users who prefer a sharper typing sound. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique "matte" feel with a muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear may be more suited to your tastes. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing feel when making your decision. Both switches offer different experiences and cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.
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