HMX Deep Navy vs. TTC Venus

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that fits your typing style, the HMX Deep Navy and the TTC Venus each offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its sharp, rich sound profile created from full nylon construction, providing a tactile experience that is both satisfying and smooth thanks to its Ly stem. If you're someone who enjoys auditory feedback while typing, this switch might appeal to you. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch captivates with its unique internal design, emphasizing a smooth and frictionless glide paired with a springy "Q-texture" that evokes the delightful sensation of biting into chewy mochi. The Venus accommodates those who prefer a quieter work environment with its muted sound signature and light actuation for rapid, effortless typing. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth keystrokes, they cater to different priorities—whether it's the rich auditory experience of the Deep Navy or the subdued and polished feel of the Venus. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

TTC Venus Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Deep Navy and TTC Venus utilize different materials for their switch housings, which leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing. The Deep Navy features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Venus employs a POM top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon used in the Deep Navy creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. This results in a muted, rounder auditory feedback, particularly when releasing keys. In contrast, the Venus's POM top also fosters a deeper and relatively muted sound but may provide a slightly more unique auditory character due to the specific properties of POM.

The bottoms of the switch housings further illustrate the contrast between these two keyboards. The nylon bottom housing of the Deep Navy continues the softer acoustic approach, yielding a sound that enhances the overall muted quality that defines this switch. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom of the Venus generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is notably crisper. This contrast in material rigidity accentuates the different auditory outcomes when key presses bottom out—where the Deep Navy's nylon results in a more hushed landing, the polycarbonate employed in the Venus amplifies the clarity of the bottom-out sound and feel.

Despite these differences in materials, both the HMX Deep Navy and TTC Venus can achieve satisfying typing experiences by effectively balancing sound profiles between their respective top and bottom housings. While the Deep Navy leans towards a fully muted auditory profile with its consistent use of nylon, the Venus integrates both muted and crisp elements thanks to the blend of POM and polycarbonate. Consequently, even though each switch's material choices differ, they can both create well-rounded typing experiences by emphasizing various aspects of sound—whether that be through the plushness of nylon or the clarity of polycarbonate. This allows typists to find satisfaction in either switch's auditory feedback while appreciating the unique characteristics that each material brings to the performance of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during long sessions. In contrast, the Venus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel in their typing, which can enhance the tactile feedback. As a result, the Deep Navy switch is lighter overall, while the Venus offers a medium-light yet more forceful experience compared to its counterpart. This difference in force characteristics suggests that users seeking ease and comfort should gravitate towards the Deep Navy, whereas those looking for more substantial feedback might favor the Venus.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Venus measures 3.8 mm. This makes the Deep Navy the shorter option, appealing to gamers who often prefer quicker response times due to the reduced distance needed for actuation. Conversely, the Venus, with its slightly longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced tactile experience for users who enjoy a deeper press. Ultimately, your choice could hinge on whether you favor the responsiveness of a shorter throw with the Deep Navy or the more hearty depth of the Venus.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy switch delivers a rich and sharp auditory profile, characterized by its deep and thocky resonance that offers a satisfying tactile feedback during typing. This sound is further enhanced by its full nylon construction, which contributes to a more pronounced acoustic experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch provides a more muted and subdued sound signature, defined by its low-pitched quality and emphasis on a quiet typing experience. The Venus's design minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical switches, making it an ideal choice for environments where discretion is required. While both switches create distinct auditory experiences, the Deep Navy is better suited for those desiring a more robust sound, while the Venus caters to users seeking a quieter operation.

When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch offers an exceptionally smooth keystroke, which creates a seamless typing experience. However, specific descriptors for the feel of the Deep Navy are unknown. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch is distinctly characterized by its buttery and frictionless feel, allowing for an effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. The addition of a gummy sensation during bottoming-out adds a unique element to the keystroke, making it feel almost springy, akin to the bouncing of a trampoline or the softness of a gummy bear. While the Deep Navy is likely smooth as well, the detailed nuances of its tactile experience are less defined than those of the Venus.

In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and TTC Venus switches cater to different typing preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Deep Navy offers a richer, more pronounced acoustic output, while the Venus focuses on a quieter and subtler experience. Feel-wise, although the exact characteristics of the Deep Navy are not clearly articulated, the TTC Venus shines with its buttery smoothness and unique gummy bottoming-out sensation. These differences suggest that users will choose between a vibrant auditory response and a more understated, smooth operation depending on their personal preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the choice between HMX Deep Navy and TTC Venus linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a lighter keystroke with a rich, thocky sound profile, then the HMX Deep Navy, with its lighter actuation force of 45 grams and full nylon construction, might be your top pick. It provides a unique auditory experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the satisfying acoustics as you type. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel combined with a muted, low-pitched sound, the TTC Venus offers a medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams. Its frictionless glide and springy texture will deliver a pleasant typing sensation, resembling the experience of biting into delicious mochi. Therefore, if you're looking for a more subdued auditory experience or a unique typing feel, the Venus would be the ideal choice. Consider the environment in which you'll be typing, along with your sound and tactile preferences, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

TTC Venus Linear

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn more