TTC Neptune vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile switches can greatly affect your typing experience. The TTC Neptune, a linear switch, is best known for its innovative internal structure that offers a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience. With a unique balance of springy resistance and a matte feel, the Neptune provides a pleasurable textured sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, a tactile switch, focuses on providing a silent yet responsive typing experience ideal for office environments. By forgoing silicone dampeners and utilizing precision-engineered stem railings, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility with superior noise reduction. While the Neptune excels in effortless typing and a muted sound signature, the WS Silent Tactile stands out for its quiet operation and tactile feedback. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer contrasting characteristics in terms of sound profile. The POM top housing of the Neptune provides a deeper and more muted sound, which is in contrast to the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile that elicits a fuller and rounder sound. While the POM housing creates a unique sound profile, the nylon housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller but deeper tone.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Neptune's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, contrasting with the WS Silent Tactile's nylon bottom housing that offers a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of the polycarbonate material results in a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder tone. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the Neptune switches.
While the Neptune and WS Silent Tactile switches offer different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they both aim to enhance the overall sound profile of the switch. The impact of each housing material on the sound is evident when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing contributing to the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of the housing materials in the overall sound experience of the switches.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Neptune is 50 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Those who prefer a light typing experience may opt for the Neptune, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the WS Silent Tactile. Both switches offer different weights, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming purposes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches are on the shorter side compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the WS Silent Tactile switch for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the Neptune with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 and muted sound profile, offering a quieter and more refined typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch also features a muted sound profile, making it ideal for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. Both switches provide a neutral sound profile, ensuring a comfortable typing experience suitable for various settings. While the Neptune offers a subdued and thocky sound, the WS Silent Tactile focuses on delivering a quiet yet crisp typing experience without the use of silicone dampeners.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch stands out for its buttery and frictionless keystrokes, providing a smooth and seamless typing sensation. The unique combination of a springy resistance and a matte feel gives each keystroke a textured pleasure, making typing a delight. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offers an accented and invigorating feel with medium tactility, providing a balance between feedback and comfort. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, suitable for a wide range of users looking for a comfortable and satisfying feel while typing.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune excels in providing a low-pitched and muted sound with a buttery and frictionless feel, while the WS Silent Tactile focuses on delivering a silent yet tactile typing experience with accented and invigorating feedback. Depending on personal preference and typing environment, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter sound profile or a more tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Neptune linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and actuation force. If you value a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light bottom out force, along with a muted and low-pitched sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium tactility for precise responsiveness and superior noise reduction in an office environment, while also enjoying a medium actuation force and a muted sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your specific typing preferences and environment requirements.
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