KTT Lightning vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the choice between the KTT Lightning and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lightning switch is renowned for its speed and precision, making it an ideal option for gamers who value milliseconds in determining victory. Its clacky sound profile and slick typing feel provide a satisfying user experience. On the other hand, the Venus switch stands out for its innovative internal design, offering a seamless glide and a captivating "Q-texture" that enhances each keystroke with a unique matte sensation. The light actuation and muted sound signature of the Venus switch make it a great choice for those looking for smooth and engaging typing feedback. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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
The KTT Lightning and TTC Venus both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Lightning's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Venus's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Lightning's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in housing materials leads to distinct typing experiences for each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials, the Lightning and Venus both showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate. The Lightning's polycarbonate top housing is praised for its clear and resonant sound profile, while the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing is known for its sharper and crisper sound. This similarity in using polycarbonate results in switches that offer a high-quality sound experience. However, the contrasting materials used in the top and bottom housings of each switch provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
In terms of typing feel, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more prominent when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This highlights how the choice of housing materials in a switch can influence the overall typing experience and the sound produced. Whether opting for the Lightning's polycarbonate and nylon housing combo or the Venus's POM and polycarbonate housing combo, keyboard enthusiasts can enjoy a customized typing experience based on their preferred sound profile.
Weight
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Venus linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Lightning switch would feel lighter and softer to type on compared to the Venus switch. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lightning switch make it ideal for those who prefer a light typing touch, perfect for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Venus switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier forces, catering to users who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. In conclusion, while both switches offer similar characteristics, the KTT Lightning switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the TTC Venus switch is slightly heavier, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Lightning switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Venus switch. A 3 mm travel distance is considered on the shallower side, providing a quicker response time which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Venus switch offers a bit more depth, which may suit those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance, with the Lightning switch offering a quicker, more responsive feel and the Venus switch providing a slightly deeper actuation.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Lightning switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which can be described as sharp and percussive. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch offers a low-pitched and muted sound, creating a quieter and more subdued auditory experience. The Lightning switch provides a more pronounced and bright sound, while the Venus switch focuses on a deeper and softer sound signature. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, catering to different preferences depending on whether you prefer a louder, crisper sound or a quieter, more mellow one.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning switch is described as subtle and polished, providing a gentle resistance and a smooth key travel experience. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch offers a buttery and frictionless feel, giving users a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Lightning switch aims for a light and refined typing feel, while the Venus switch emphasizes a fluid and uniform typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and satisfying typing feel, with the Lightning switch focusing on a light and polished sensation, and the Venus switch providing a smooth and frictionless keystroke experience.
Overall, the KTT Lightning and TTC Venus linear switches offer unique and distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound along with a subtle and polished typing feel, ideal for those looking for a sharper and more refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Venus switch stands out with its low-pitched and muted sound, paired with a buttery and frictionless feel, catering to users who prefer a quieter and smoother typing sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer excellent options that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the KTT Lightning and TTC Venus switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharper, crisper sound or a softer, more muted one, as well as whether you prefer a light, polished feel or a smoother, buttery typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that prioritizes speed and responsiveness for gaming or fast-paced typing, the KTT Lightning linear switch with its 50g bottom-out force would be an excellent choice. The Lightning switch offers a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile, perfect for those seeking a quick and precise keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique matte sensation that provides a balance of smoothness and engaging feedback, the TTC Venus linear switch with its 52g bottom-out force would be more suitable. The Venus switch offers a seamless glide and a captivating "Q-texture" with a muted sound signature, making it ideal for a more immersive and tactile typing experience. Consider your preferences and typing needs carefully to choose between the Lightning and Venus switches for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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