HMX Gravel vs. TTC Venus

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and the TTC Venus both stand out as compelling options for those seeking a linear experience, yet they offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined feel, featuring a medium-light actuation force that provides a responsive and effortless typing experience. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a satisfying tactile response in their everyday typing. In contrast, the TTC Venus boasts an innovative internal design that guarantees a frictionless glide and a delightful "Q-texture," mimicking the sensation of biting into chewy mochi. With its light actuation and muted sound signature, this switch also promises quick typing while maintaining a subdued acoustic profile, suited for quieter environments. Both switches present their own appeal based on smoothness versus texture and sound, encouraging users to reflect on what they value most in their typing experience. 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 Gravel Linear

TTC Venus Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the TTC Venus, we see distinct differences in their acoustic characteristics, which ultimately affect the sound profiles produced by each switch. The Gravel's top housing is made of polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released. This striking clarity makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effect of the lighting underneath. Conversely, the Venus utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the polycarbonate material emphasizes resonant frequencies, POM's softer characteristics tend to round off the sound, leading to a more subdued auditory experience.

Examining the bottom housing further illustrates how the choice of materials impacts sound profiles. The Gravel features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper, fuller sound due to nylon's ability to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a more rounded bottom-out sound, amplifying the overall tactile typing experience without the sharpness associated with polycarbonate. In contrast, the TTC Venus employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials reveals how the Gravel uses a classic approach to achieve warmth in sound, while the Venus opts for modern clarity.

These differing top and bottom housing materials indicate that the overall acoustic experience will shift between the two switches. While the Gravel combines the crispness of polycarbonate on top with the depth of nylon below, the Venus offers a unique contrast by merging the deeper tones of POM at the top with the brightness of polycarbonate at the bottom. Therefore, while the HMX Gravel aims for a harmonious blend of high and low frequencies that enhance deeper auditory experiences, the TTC Venus targets a more pronounced high-frequency sound, effectively showcasing how different materials contribute to varying soundscapes. Ultimately, whether users prefer the clarity of the Gravel or the muted essence of the Venus, both switches send a powerful message through their thoughtfully chosen housing materials.

Weight

The HMX Gravel and TTC Venus linear switches exhibit comparable actuation forces, with both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This similarity provides a consistent typing experience, making them equally suitable for users who prefer lighter switches ideal for prolonged use, such as during extended work sessions or gaming marathons. However, when examining the bottom out forces, the Gravel features a slightly lower force of 50 grams compared to the Venus's 52 grams. This indicates that while both switches are categorized as medium-light, the Gravel may offer a marginally softer feel at full travel, appealing to users who prioritize ease of use. Overall, the Gravel switch is the lighter option during usage, while the Venus, with its slightly higher bottom out force, may provide a bit more resistance for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Gravel featuring a travel distance of 3.5 mm and the Venus having a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience a shorter actuation with the Gravel, which may appeal more to gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Venus's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel that some users may prefer, especially those who enjoy the tactile depth associated with traditional switches. For those leaning toward a preference for responsiveness, the HMX Gravel is the more favorable option, while the TTC Venus caters to individuals who appreciate a slightly more pronounced actuation height.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Gravel switch has a smooth and pleasant acoustic profile that creates a satisfying typing experience, though specific details about its sound characteristics aren't provided. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch is characterized by its low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound signature, making it a great choice for those seeking a quieter keyboard experience. The Venus produces a soft and rich thocky tone that is less obtrusive, suitable for both quiet office environments and home use. The contrast in sound profiles suggests that while the Gravel may produce a smooth sound, the Venus offers a more deliberate effort to minimize noise and maintain a calm typing atmosphere.

When comparing the feel of these switches, the HMX Gravel is recognized for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, though specific descriptors are not given. Conversely, the TTC Venus provides a buttery, frictionless, and mildly gummy typing feel, reminiscent of the soft give of a trampoline or gummy bear. This makes the Venus uniquely enjoyable to type on, with its springy "Q-texture" enhancing the overall ride. While the Gravel's smoothness promises an effortless keystroke experience, the added tactile richness of the Venus switch might appeal to those who enjoy an engaging feel beneath their fingers.

In summary, both the HMX Gravel and TTC Venus linear switches offer unique advantages, appealing to different preferences in sound and feel. The Gravel offers an exceptional smoothness that many enthusiasts appreciate, while the Venus stands out for its muted sound and delightful tactile qualities, creating a different typing experience that is equally attractive. Ultimately, both switches will provide a smooth typing experience, albeit with distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations that might cater to different user preferences. If sound is a priority for you, the TTC Venus is clearly designed for quieter environments, while the Gravel may still provide a fulfilling typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch should be guided by your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and lightweight typing experience, the Gravel is likely your best bet; its lighter actuation force of 50 grams translates to effortless keystrokes that many typists find incredibly satisfying. Additionally, its refined feel and sound profile make it an excellent option for those who enjoy a more responsive typing experience. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a unique tactile character, the TTC Venus switch, with its medium-light force of 52 grams, is a strong contender. The Venus's ingenious internal design offers a frictionless glide and a delightful "Q-texture," reminiscent of chewy textures, making it an excellent choice for rapid typing while also maintaining a muted sound signature that is perfect for shared or quiet environments. Thus, assess your typing style and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard; this will guide you toward the switch that truly enhances your experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

TTC Venus Linear

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn more