Gateron Jupiter Red vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and TTC Venus both stand out in their own unique ways. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, thanks to its single-stage spring and medium-heavy actuation. On the other hand, the TTC Venus offers a distinctive experience with its internal configuration that provides a nearly frictionless glide combined with a "Q-texture" for a unique matte sensation. While the Jupiter Red is more polished and creamy, the Venus is buttery with a gummy feel. The Jupiter Red is ideal for those who prefer a consistent typing experience, while the Venus is perfect for those who enjoy a rapid and effortless typing experience with a subdued 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
60g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the TTC Venus, we can see that they both utilize polycarbonate in the top housing. The Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Venus's POM top housing offers a unique sound profile on the deeper side, resulting in a more muted typing experience. While both materials excel in creating distinct sound profiles, users may prefer one over the other based on their preference for sound depth and pitch.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Jupiter Red features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. This leads to a duller and rounder typing experience compared to the sharper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the Venus opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which mirrors the qualities of the top housing by providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This split in housing materials gives users the opportunity to experience a combination of sound qualities when typing on these switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the TTC Venus will come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. While the Jupiter Red offers a mix of sharper and deeper sound profiles with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings, the Venus provides a consistent deep and muted sound profile with both POM and polycarbonate materials. Whether you prefer a crisper, resonant typing experience or a deeper, more muted feel, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light to the touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires a slightly heavier force of 60 grams compared to the Venus, which only needs 52 grams. This means that the Jupiter Red provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Venus offers a lighter touch that may be more comfortable for those typing for extended periods. Overall, both switches offer a medium actuation force but differ in their bottom out force, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter 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. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Jupiter Red being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Venus switch for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Jupiter Red. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch produces a low-pitched, muted, subdued, and thocky sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Venus providing a more distinctive and engaging sound compared to the Jupiter Red.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the TTC Venus switch is characterized as buttery, gummy, frictionless, and mild, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with minimal resistance or friction. Both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing feel, with the Venus switch providing a slightly more luxurious and unique tactile experience compared to the Jupiter Red.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red provides a more neutral and versatile option, suitable for a wide range of users, the Venus stands out with its low-pitched, muted sound profile and buttery, gummy feel. Whether you prefer a traditional and consistent typing experience with the Jupiter Red or a more unique and engaging feel with the Venus, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the TTC Venus linear switches, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a slightly heavier actuation force and a smooth, consistent keystroke with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force for rapid typing, combined with a unique "matte" sensation and a more muted sound signature, the TTC Venus could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you appreciate a more neutral sound and feel, the Jupiter Red may suit your needs, while the Venus offers a low-pitched, muted, and frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel when typing on a mechanical keyboard.