HMX KD200 vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the switch you choose can greatly influence your typing experience. The HMX KD200 linear switch stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offering a distinctive auditory feedback that some typists find satisfying and engaging. This switch is designed for those who appreciate a bit of character with each keystroke, making it an appealing choice for gamers and writers alike who enjoy the sound of their keyboard in action. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch excels in providing a highly refined typing experience with its internal design that ensures a smooth, frictionless glide. This switch is characterized by its light actuation and muted sound signature, which caters to users who prefer a quieter, more subdued typing environment without sacrificing performance. Both switches offer unique benefits—while the KD200 appeals to those who enjoy an audible and tactile response, the TTC Venus is perfect for those seeking a soft touch and refined silence. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the TTC Venus, a clear distinction emerges between their respective top and bottom components. The KD200 features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality is attributed to nylon's softer characteristics, which enhance sound absorption and produce a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Venus utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing that also yields a pleasing, deep sound profile albeit with a more muted quality. Although both materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience, the nylon in the KD200 emphasizes warmth in sound, while the POM in the Venus provides a uniqueness that subtly changes the acoustic character.
Turning attention to the bottom housings, we see a further divergence in material impact. The KD200 employs a nylon material for its bottom housing as well, reinforcing the overall deeper sound profile and enhancing the dampening effect, which contributes to a softer bottom-out sound. Meanwhile, the Venus features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which brings forth a more distinct, crisp sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This allows the Venus to create a sharper auditory response, offering a contrast to the KD200's rounder sound. As the sound tends to be more influenced by the bottom housing during key presses, users might observe a notable difference in how the two switches articulate sound when bottomed out.
Ultimately, even though both switches utilize different materials in their top and bottom housings, they still manage to create similarly rich sound experiences. The KD200's nylon top and bottom contribute to a cohesive deep sound profile, while the Venus, with its POM top and polycarbonate bottom, produces a unique depth combined with a vibrant crispness. Users can expect satisfying results from both, albeit through different auditory characteristics and tactile sensations. Those who prioritize acoustics may find the KD200’s more subdued interaction appealing, while others might prefer the greater clarity and sharpness provided by the Venus. Therefore, despite their differing materials, both switches can deliver compelling typing experiences that cater to diverse preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch to the TTC Venus linear switch, both switches share a comparable actuation force of 45 grams, offering a similar feel when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, there is a slight difference in their bottom out forces, with the KD200 reaching 50 grams, while the Venus requires a bit more effort at 52 grams. This indicates that although both switches are relatively light in terms of actuation, the KD200 is the lighter option overall, while the Venus has a slightly heavier bottom out force. For users who favor a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the KD200 may be the better choice, providing a fluid experience without too much strain. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback will find the Venus, with its marginally heavier bottom out, more aligned with their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we find a notable difference between the two. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Venus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you're looking for a quicker response time typical of gaming or fast-paced typing, the KD200's shorter travel distance may be more appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the Venus could be the better choice due to its deeper travel distance. In summary, the KD200 provides a shorter travel distance compared to the longer 3.8 mm of the Venus switch, catering to different user preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest member of its switch family, suggestive of a bright, resonant tone that’s likely to attract attention in a crowded environment. This clackiness can provide a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists enjoy, especially during longer typing sessions. In contrast, the TTC Venus presents a muted sound signature that is characterized by low-pitched, subdued tones. The Venus achieves a softer, thocky sound when pressed while minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it well-suited for quieter environments. This dichotomy in sound profiles suggests that those seeking a more pronounced auditory experience might prefer the KD200, while individuals who prioritize a quieter workspace would likely gravitate towards the Venus.
When considering the feel of each switch, the KD200's characteristics are not explicitly mentioned, leaving its precise typing experience unknown. However, the TTC Venus is noted for its exceptionally smooth and frictionless travel, providing a buttery sensation during key presses. Additionally, it features a unique gummy feel upon bottoming out, as if one were pressing into a trampoline or gummy bear. This combination facilitates a very pleasant and effortless typing experience, making each keystroke feel fluid and engaging. The Venus also maintains a mild texture, ensuring it remains approachable for users regardless of their typing style or experience level.
In summary, the HMX KD200 and TTC Venus linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences catered to different preferences. The KD200's clackiness appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback, while the Venus prioritizes a smooth, muted typing experience that's mindful of noise levels. While the exact feel of the KD200 remains unspecified, the frictionless and gummy characteristics of the Venus make it a compelling choice for many typists. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether one values sound prominence or a quieter, more refined typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 and the TTC Venus switches will largely depend on your personal typing style and environment. If you prefer a clacky, energetic sound profile and a very light typing experience, the KD200 would suit you well, especially during gaming sessions or when you enjoy the feedback of audible keystrokes that create an engaging atmosphere. Conversely, if you seek a smoother, quieter experience with a balanced and polished feel, the TTC Venus is likely the better option. Its low-pitched sound profile and frictionless glide make it ideal for office environments or quieter spaces, where your typing won't disturb others. The Venus also offers a unique "Q-texture" experience that mimics the sensation of biting into something chewy, which can add to the overall enjoyment of typing. Ultimately, consider what aspects of sound and feel are most important to you, and choose based on how those factors align with your specific needs, whether for work, gaming, or general typing pleasure.
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