Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Black Lotus is a linear switch that boasts a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, with a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between substantial and not too hefty. Notably, these switches are designed to reduce housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure, while the unique light column provides in-switch lighting that is fully removable. In contrast, the TTC Venus, also a linear switch, features an innovative internal configuration that sets it apart. It offers a delightful balance between a frictionless glide and a "Q-texture" springy resistance, giving it a unique "matte" sensation with each press. The Venus also promises very light actuation for rapid typing and a muted sound signature for a subdued auditory experience. Each switch is categorized with specific characteristics, but ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preferences and typing style. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and TTC Venus switches both offer unique and premium housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Black Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing that gives it a premium feel, while the Venus utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both switches offer different sound profiles due to their top housing material, they both provide a unique typing experience that enthusiasts appreciate.
In terms of bottom housing, the Black Lotus utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Venus switch uses a polycarbonate bottom housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of different bottom housing materials in these switches highlights the importance of housing material in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. Overall, both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their bottom housing material.
While the Durock Black Lotus and TTC Venus switches differ in their housing materials, both switches offer high-quality typing experiences with their unique sound profiles. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of nylon in the Black Lotus or the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Venus, both switches showcase the impact housing materials have on the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus has a higher actuation force at 55 grams compared to the Venus at 45 grams. Similarly, the Black Lotus also has a higher bottom out force at 63.5 grams compared to the Venus at 52 grams. The Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the Venus offers a lighter typing experience with its medium-light forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Venus switch, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more robust typing experience may prefer the Black Lotus. Both switches provide unique advantages based on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force, ensuring a personalized typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Venus switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Black Lotus. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Black Lotus being on the longer side and the Venus being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Venus switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Black Lotus switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
The TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 comparing the sound of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, the Black Lotus is best described as having a neutral and subdued sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate and dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the Venus switch is characterized by a low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound. This indicates a bass-heavy, softer, and satisfying noise when typing. Both switches aim to provide a quieter typing experience, but the Venus switch might offer a more distinct and satisfying sound with its thocky characteristic.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Black Lotus switch is known for its silky and buttery typing experience. These descriptors point to an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke with minimal resistance. The TTC Venus switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel. This means that typing on the Venus switch will feel seamless, gentle, and nearly effortless, akin to bouncing on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Black Lotus provides a more neutral and subdued sound with a silky and buttery typing feel, the Venus switch delivers a low-pitched, thocky sound with a buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between a more subtle and smooth typing experience with the Black Lotus or a more distinct and engaging typing feel with the Venus switch. Ultimately, both switches promise a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a more neutral sound profile with a hint of thocky feedback, the Black Lotus may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a muted, gummy, or buttery sound profile with a frictionless feel, the Venus switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what factors are most important to you in a switch before making your decision.
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