HMX Cheese vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the HMX Cheese and the TTC Venus, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The HMX Cheese switches are renowned for their unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that sets them apart. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switches feature a unique internal design that combines a seamless glide with a captivating "Q-texture," resulting in a matte sensation that is both smooth and engaging. While the HMX Cheese switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, the TTC Venus switches boast a very light actuation for rapid typing. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the TTC Venus switches offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile and feel of typing. The HMX Cheese features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Venus switches have a POM top housing that produces a pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side, but relatively more muted. While both materials contribute to a deeper sound profile, they offer slightly different tonal qualities.
In terms of bottom housing, the HMX Cheese and TTC Venus again differ in their materials. The Cheese's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with clear housing for RGB lighting purposes. These differences in bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of typing on each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and TTC Venus switches play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing on each switch. While both switches feature unique characteristics in their respective materials, such as nylon and POM for top housing, and nylon and polycarbonate for bottom housing, they ultimately offer similar benefits in creating a deeper sound profile. However, the subtle differences in sound quality, tone, and clarity between the two materials provide users with options to choose a switch that best suits their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is the lighter option. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Venus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, positioning it slightly on the heavier side compared to the Cheese. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Cheese more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Venus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for the actuation and bottom out forces desired.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In the realm of traditional travel distances, both of these switches fall on the shorter side, with 4.0 mm being the most common. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the HMX Cheese a favorable option in this regard. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press and greater depth, the TTC Venus with its slightly longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 it comes to sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that stands out for its lightness and distinctiveness. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch presents a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound profile that wraps each keystroke in a gentle auditory embrace. While the Cheese switch delivers a more pronounced and lively sound, the Venus switch offers a quieter and more mellow typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on personal preference, as both switches cater to different sound preferences and typing environments.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. The TTC Venus linear switch, on the other hand, boasts a buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing sensation that offers a unique matte feeling with every press. While the Cheese switch focuses on providing a smooth and engaging typing experience, the Venus switch emphasizes a seamless and effortless keystroke with a touch of springy resistance. Whether you prefer a polished and refined typing feel or a fluid and frictionless keystroke, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to various typing styles and preferences.
Taking all available information into consideration, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a clacky and poppy sound with smooth typing experience like the Cheese switch, or a muted and subdued sound with a buttery and gummy feel like the Venus switch, both options provide a range of qualities to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the TTC Venus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch with a unique clacky sound profile and ultra-smooth typing experience, the HMX Cheese switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a slightly heavier actuation force with a smooth yet engaging typing sensation and a muted sound signature, the TTC Venus switch might be more up your alley. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and TTC Venus switches will depend on your individual preferences for typing feel and sound.
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