TTC Neptune vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The TTC Neptune is a linear switch renowned for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a unique springy resistance akin to chewy delicacies like mochi. This switch combines effortless typing with a muted sound profile, offering a refined and textured feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio boasts a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and a "thocky" sound from nylon housings, providing a profound tactile experience that is engaging and satisfying. Each switch has its own characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing elicits a fuller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper and clearer sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and duller sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through the distinct characteristics of their housing materials.
The use of POM in the Neptune's top housing creates a distinctive sound profile that is pleasing to many users, while the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing offers a classic switch experience with a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of their bottom housings, the Neptune's polycarbonate material results in a sharper and more resonant sound, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a softer and more absorbent quality to the typing experience. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding the type of sound profile and tactile feel desired during typing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches differ, the impact of these materials on the overall sound profile and typing experience is notable. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings result in a unique blend of sharpness, depth, fullness, and roundness in sound production. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound with nylon housing or a sharper, clearer sound with polycarbonate housing, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to individual preferences in typing feel and sound aesthetics.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neptune switch has a lighter 50 grams compared to the heavier 70 grams of the WS Heavy Tactile switch. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Neptune switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the WS Heavy Tactile switch provide a more substantial typing feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Neptune offers a slightly deeper press, which may be preferred by those who like more depth in their key presses, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a slightly shorter and potentially snappier press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Neptune linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued typing experience, ensuring a refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch provides a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, delivering a sharp and immersive auditory experience. Depending on the user's preference, the Neptune will offer a more mellow and bass-heavy tone, while the WS Heavy Tactile will provide a crisper and brighter sound.
In terms of feel, the Neptune linear switch offers a buttery, frictionless, and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch delivers an accented, bouncy, and sharp tactile feedback, creating a pronounced and reactive typing feel. Depending on the user's preference, the Neptune will offer a more uniform and gentle typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile will provide a more prominent and lively feedback sensation.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune emphasizes a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience with a muted sound signature, while the WS Heavy Tactile focuses on providing a profound tactile sensation with a thocky and resonant sound profile. Depending on whether the user values a smoother typing experience or a more tactile feedback, they can choose between the Neptune and the WS Heavy Tactile switches to suit their preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying and engaging mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light touch, the TTC Neptune linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its unique "matte" feel and muted sound signature make it perfect for those who prefer a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch would be the better option. With its profound tactile feedback, immersive resistance, and captivating "thocky" sound, this switch is perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced and lively typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound, so consider your personal preferences and needs when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
