Gateron Mars vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mars and the TTC Venus stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts of linear switches. The Gateron Mars combines innovation with performance, featuring a unique POK stem and a durable housing crafted from a Nylon and POM blend, resulting in a satisfying typing experience with smooth keystrokes and solid reliability. On the other hand, the TTC Venus is celebrated for its ingenious internal design, which offers a buttery and frictionless glide akin to the delightful sensation of biting into chewy mochi. With its light actuation and muted sound profile, the Venus caters to those seeking rapid and effortless typing without the distraction of loud keystrokes. Both switches have their merits—whether you're drawn to the innovative design of the Mars or the subdued elegance of the Venus. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mars and the TTC Venus switches present a fascinating comparison, as they each utilize two different plastics for their construction that contribute uniquely to their sound profiles. The Mars switch features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer nature. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when the switch is engaged, creating a typing experience defined by a duller but rounded audio signature. In contrast, the Venus switch has a POM top housing, which similarly achieves a deep and muted sound profile but does so through the distinct characteristics of POM. While both switches aim for a deeper sound, the variances in housing material may influence the tactile experience during typing and the overall emotional response to the switch's audio output.
When examining the bottom housings of the two switches, even more contrasts emerge. The Gateron Mars utilizes POM for its bottom housing, mirroring its top housing while generating a sound described as both pleasing and unique. This consistency in material can enhance the cohesiveness of the switch’s sound character. Conversely, the TTC Venus features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contrasts sharply with the softer materials used in both the Mars's top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate introduces a sharper and crisper sound profile, which can create a more pronounced auditory experience, particularly noticeable with the bottom-out sound. In this sense, while the Mars aims for uniformity through its dual POM housing approach, the Venus creates a more diverse sound profile by combining POM and polycarbonate.
The interaction between the two separate housing materials in each switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sensory experience. In the case of the Gateron Mars, the nylon top and POM bottom work together to create a rounded auditory experience from both the engagement and release of the keys, emphasizing warmth and depth. On the other hand, the TTC Venus, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, allows for a more pronounced and clear auditory response, especially when bottoming out the switch. This differentiation means that while both switches offer an appealing sound signature, their unique compositions will yield distinctly different auditory experiences. Thus, users seeking a softer and more muted sound profile may gravitate towards the Mars, whereas those desiring a sharper auditory feedback might prefer the Venus.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users will experience similar keystroke responsiveness when triggering a key press. However, the TTC Venus has a bottom out force of 52 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly heavier push to fully register a keystroke, whereas the bottom out force for the Gateron Mars is unknown. This results in the TTC Venus being the heavier switch overall due to its additional force required to bottom out, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mars, with its equal actuation force but unknown bottom out force, is likely to be perceived as lighter, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mars linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Mars switch is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its reduced key travel. Conversely, the Venus switch provides a more substantial travel distance, catering to users who prefer a deeper, more tactile feel when pressing down on the keys. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron Mars would be the better choice, whereas the TTC Venus might be more suitable for those who appreciate a more pronounced key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 Gateron Mars switches remain an unknown, leaving the impression of silence pending further exploration. In contrast, the TTC Venus switches are characterized by a low-pitched, muted, and neutral sound profile. They produce a subdued auditory experience that gives off a thocky resonance, often appreciated in a quieter work or home environment. This soft yet satisfying auditory feedback ensures that while the typing experience is pleasant, it doesn't disturb those nearby, making Venus a compelling choice for users seeking a more discreet switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mars switches again leave us in a state of uncertainty about their tactile characteristics. Meanwhile, the TTC Venus switches are known for their buttery smoothness and frictionless nature, allowing for a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. The gummy sensation when bottoming out provides a unique and enjoyable typing context, akin to the bounce of a trampoline or the softness of gummy candy. With additional descriptors like mild and polished, Venus switches promise an approachable yet refined typing experience that caters to a wide array of users.
Overall, the TTC Venus switches clearly present a refined auditory and tactile experience, characterized by their muted sounds and exceptionally smooth feel. The qualities of the Gateron Mars remain vague, but exploring them may yield similarly enjoyable results depending on their eventual acoustic and tactile performance. For newcomers, the TTC Venus offers a tantalizing introduction to the world of linear switches, balancing comfort and sound in a way that is promising for both casual typists and gaming enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron Mars and TTC Venus linear switches will depend largely on your typing preferences and the context in which you use your keyboard. If you seek a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gateron Mars may be your go-to, particularly if you're looking for something innovative with a unique design. Its frictionless feel is ideal for rapid typing and gaming, allowing you to execute commands without any hindrance. Conversely, if you prefer a more balanced actuation with a touch of springiness, the TTC Venus is well-suited for both daily typing and gaming; its medium-light bottom-out force provides a manageable resistance that still feels engaging. The Venus also offers a more subdued sound profile, perfect for shared workspaces or quieter environments. Ultimately, if sound and feel matter significantly to your typing comfort, lean towards the Venus for its buttery glide and muted tones. However, if you're driven by a new feel and seek a lighter switch experience, then the Mars may align better with your needs.
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