TTC Neptune vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a springy resistance akin to chewy delicacies like mochi. This switch offers a textured pleasure with a muted sound signature, making keystrokes refined and effortless. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu is ideal for those seeking a delicate typing experience or typing for extended periods. With a crisp sound profile, this switch provides a subtle and polished feel to each keystroke. While the Neptune is described as 'buttery' and 'gummy', the Yanyu is more 'feathery' and 'subtle'. 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
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer unique characteristics that impact the sound profile and feel of the switches. The POM top housing of the Neptune creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing of the Yanyu produces a more pleasant and brighter sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune generates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing of the Yanyu offers a similarly pleasant but brighter sound profile.
While both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings, they each contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch in distinct ways. The combination of POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing in the Neptune split the qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the Neptune switch, the bottom housing's impact is felt, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In comparison, the Yanyu switch with the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in both top and bottom housings offers a consistent, pleasant, and bright sound profile throughout.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the SP-Star Yanyu switches provide users with a variety of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences. The Neptune's use of POM and polycarbonate creates a unique combination of deep, muted tones and sharp, crisp sounds, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offers a more consistent and bright sound profile. Both switches showcase how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, providing users with a range of options to customize their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that the Neptune is the lighter option. The Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Yanyu's unknown actuation force, making it lighter in terms of initial force needed to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Yanyu's bottom out force is 43 grams, indicating that the Neptune requires more force to fully press the key. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Neptune may be the more suitable choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Yanyu may provide a better option. In terms of weight, both switches are relatively light, but the Neptune edges out as the lighter option overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Yanyu's 4 mm travel distance. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times, the Neptune offers a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Yanyu provides a slightly deeper key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Neptune offering a quicker response and the Yanyu providing a slightly more pronounced key press.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its low-pitched and muted sound profile, providing a refined and unobtrusive typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a neutral and thocky sound, offering a satisfying and deep auditory feedback. While both switches have different sound characteristics, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, including the keycaps and the typing surface.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is celebrated for its buttery, gummy, and frictionless qualities, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a unique tactile sensation reminiscent of chewy delights. In comparison, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is known for its mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, providing a gentle and light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and offers smooth key travel. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel and keypress response.
Overall, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Neptune boasts a harmonious balance of smoothness and resistance with a muted sound signature, the Yanyu offers a crisp sound profile and a delicate typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboard setups may provide a clearer insight into which one aligns best with your personal preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights, the Neptune may be the perfect choice for you. Its ultralight feel ensures swift and effortless typing with a muted sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch is ideal, especially for long typing sessions. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you value most.
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