TTC Flame Red vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note the distinct characteristics of each. The Flame Red is renowned for its stunning light diffuser, making it ideal for those looking to showcase a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on these linear switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, offering a polished experience overall. On the other hand, the Venus stands out for its internal design, featuring a unique balance between a frictionless glide and a springy resistance known as "Q-texture." This combination delivers a matte sensation with light actuation for rapid typing, all wrapped in a muted sound signature. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Venus, it is clear that the Flame Red uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the Venus opts for POM for the top housing and polycarbonate for the bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Venus generates a unique sound that is deeper and more muted. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Flame Red also contributes to the deeper sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound with more clarity and resonance.
While the Flame Red and the Venus have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the impact of these materials on the overall sound profile is significant. The combination of nylon top and bottom housings in the Flame Red results in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile, with a duller and rounder tone. In comparison, the split housing materials in the Venus provide a unique contrast between the deeper and muted sound from the POM top housing and the sharper and clearer sound from the polycarbonate bottom housing. This demonstrates how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Venus housing materials depends on the desired sound profile and typing experience. The Flame Red's nylon housing creates a softer, fuller sound profile that may be preferred by some users for its rounder tone. On the other hand, the Venus's split housing materials offer a more unique combination of deep and muted sounds from the POM top housing and sharp, clear tones from the polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
Both the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Venus linear switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the TTC Flame Red is slightly heavier at 54 grams compared to the TTC Venus at 52 grams. This means that while both switches offer a medium-light actuation force, the Flame Red provides a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more solid typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red and TTC Venus linear switches, it is evident that the Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Venus. While the 0.2 mm may seem minimal, it can make a difference in the typing or gaming experience. The Flame Red switch offers a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying and comfortable. On the other hand, the Venus switch provides a slightly shallower press, which can lead to faster response times and a more agile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for. Both switches offer quality performance, but the slight difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch is described as having a low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a softer and quieter overall sound. When it comes to the feel, the Flame Red switch is characterized by its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined touch that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Conversely, the Venus switch gives off a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel, providing a smooth, effortless, and unique typing experience that is both engaging and comfortable.
Overall, both the TTC Flame Red and Venus linear switches have their strengths and unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Flame Red excels in providing a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a neutral and moderate typing experience. On the other hand, the Venus showcases a unique combination of a nearly frictionless glide and a springy "Q-texture," offering a light actuation and engaging typing sensation with a muted and thocky sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a switch with a visually captivating light diffuser for backlit keyboards, a weighty smoothness, and a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a unique internal configuration that offers a seamless glide, engaging "Q-texture" sensation, very light actuation, and a muted sound signature, the Venus switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing experience preferences and gaming or work requirements.
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