TTC Gold Red vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering between the TTC Gold Red and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, users are faced with two exceptional linear switch options. The Gold Red offers a sleek and smooth typing experience, with a light-medium level of resistance and a subtle yet snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Venus boasts a unique internal design that provides a nearly frictionless glide and a distinctive "Q-texture" for an engaging typing experience. While the Gold Red is characterized by its thocky feel and low-pitched sound, the Venus is known for its buttery and gummy texture with a muted and subdued sound signature. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them appealing to different users, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best choice for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the TTC Venus, one major difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Venus utilizes a POM top housing which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the Gold Red offering a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Venus's more subdued tones.
Another point of contrast between the two switches is found in their bottom housing materials. The Gold Red incorporates a nylon bottom housing which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the Venus opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile similar to its top housing material. This difference in bottom housing materials can influence the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing, providing users with varied tactile experiences.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gold Red and the Venus, one commonality is their utilization of polycarbonate in either the top or bottom housing. Both switches leverage the unique sound properties of polycarbonate, with the Gold Red employing it in the top housing and the Venus incorporating it in the bottom housing. This similarity in material choice ensures that users can expect a certain level of sharpness and clarity in sound from both switches, albeit through different housing components. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Red and the Venus may come down to personal preference in sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the TTC Venus linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams, whereas the Venus requires 52 grams, making the Gold Red slightly lighter in that aspect as well. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light range, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Gold Red may appeal to individuals looking for a more effortless typing experience, while the slightly heavier forces of the Venus may offer a bit more tactile feedback for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Gold Red switch offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Venus switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a similar level of quality, but the slight difference in travel distance could make a noticeable impact depending on personal preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 Gold Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, offering a deep and rich tone that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch provides a unique sound experience with a combination of low-pitched, muted, and subdued qualities, creating a quieter and more subtle auditory experience. Both switches fall under the neutral category, making them suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch offers a mild and silky typing experience, with a subtle and polished finish that enhances overall smoothness and comfort. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch provides a buttery and frictionless feel, akin to a gummy sensation when bottoming out. Both switches are described as mild and polished, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The unique texture of the Venus switch adds an extra layer of engagement to each keystroke, complementing its light actuation force for rapid typing.
In conclusion, the Gold Red linear switch excels in providing a smooth and light typing experience with a snappy sound profile, while the TTC Venus linear switch stands out for its innovative internal design, offering a balance between seamless glide and captivating texture. Both switches are suitable for a range of users and environments, providing a comfortable and engaging typing experience. Whether you prefer a slightly more pronounced sound with the Gold Red or a quieter, more unique feel with the Venus, both switches offer quality performance and versatility for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light-medium level of resistance with a buttery smooth typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a unique "matte" sensation, very light actuation for rapid typing, and a muted sound signature, the Venus switch could be more suited to your liking. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns more closely with your preferences and needs. Ultimately, both switches offer distinctive qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that best fits your typing style and preferences.
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