TTC Neptune vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch stand out as distinct options. The TTC Neptune is renowned for its innovative internal structure that sets it apart in the switch landscape. With a smooth, almost frictionless glide and a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls, the Neptune offers a unique typing experience with a "matte" feel that elevates every keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is characterized by its distinctive clicky sound and tactile feedback. While the Neptune provides a more subdued and muted typing experience, the Blue Jade offers a more pronounced auditory ambiance. Both switches have their own appeal, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Outemu Blue Jade both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Neptune utilizing a POM top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Blue Jade features a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Neptune creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade produces a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of bottom housing, the polycarbonate of the Neptune gives a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon of the Blue Jade offers a duller and rounder sound.
While the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Blue Jade differ, they both provide unique sound profiles based on the properties of the materials used. The Neptune's POM top housing offers a pleasing and unique sound that is relatively more muted, while the Blue Jade's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Similarly, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound, while the Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound profile.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the TTC Neptune and the Outemu Blue Jade can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a unique experience based on the qualities of each material. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Neptune or the softer and fuller sound of nylon in the Blue Jade, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Neptune has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Blue Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Neptune will provide a light and easy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Blue Jade offers a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push required, better suited for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. Both switches offer unique experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. In this case, the Blue Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Neptune with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blue Jade. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, so it depends on personal preference as to which travel distance is the better choice.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
The TTC Neptune linear switch is renowned for its unique feel, offering a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a springy resistance that is reminiscent of chewy textures like mochi or tapioca pearls. This blend of characteristics provides a textured pleasure with every keystroke, making typing a delightful sensory experience. In terms of sound, the Neptune produces a low-pitched and muted sound that adds to the refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance. On the other hand, there is no available information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch.
When comparing the two switches, the Neptune's sound is described as low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. In contrast, the sound profile of the Blue Jade switch remains unknown. In terms of feel, the Neptune is characterized as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Blue Jade switch.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the TTC Neptune linear switch are well-documented, the information on the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is lacking. In terms of sound and feel, the Neptune offers a smooth and textured typing experience with a low-pitched and muted sound profile, creating an enjoyable and refined typing experience. If the Blue Jade switch provides similar characteristics, users can expect a comparable typing experience with a different sound and feel profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when making the decision between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the following factors. If you value a light bottom out force, a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience with a unique "matte" feel, a low-pitched and muted sound profile, and descriptors like "buttery" and "frictionless," then the TTC Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile, and descriptors such as "neutral" and "subdued," then the Outemu Blue Jade could be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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