Durock Medium Tactile vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options, each offering unique features and experiences. The Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, creating a jelly-like sound signature that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Venus stands out with its innovative internal design, providing a seamless glide combined with a "Q-texture" that offers a matte sensation during key presses. While the Medium Tactile is categorized as 'Accented' and 'Stepped', the Venus boasts categories such as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', and 'Thocky'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Venus, we can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Medium Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile. This is ideal for users who value a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Venus's POM top housing provides a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. This makes the Venus a great choice for those who prefer a softer and less jarring typing sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Medium Tactile features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users seeking a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with clear resonance. This creates a more defined and pronounced sound when compared to the Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing.
While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, it is interesting to note the impact each housing has on the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. By understanding these differences, users can choose a switch based on their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, whether opting for the Durock Medium Tactile or the TTC Venus, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their specific sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we see some differences. The Medium Tactile has an actuation force of None grams, while the Venus has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Medium Tactile requires 65 grams to bottom out, whereas the Venus only requires 52 grams. This makes the Venus switch lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Medium Tactile. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Venus switch more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier touch, the Medium Tactile might be the better option. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Medium Tactile switch falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, offering a standard feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Venus switch's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and individuals looking for a quicker response time. In terms of comparing the two, the Venus switch is shorter in travel distance compared to the Medium Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired tactile sensation while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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
The Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, giving a unique auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound that wraps each keystroke in a subdued auditory embrace. While both switches provide distinct sound profiles, the Venus switch may be more appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, providing a balanced and pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. In contrast, the Venus switch is buttery and gummy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Venus switch providing a frictionless and effortless typing experience that may appeal to those seeking a more fluid key travel.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile and TTC Venus switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Medium Tactile switch excels in providing a jelly-like sound signature and balanced tactility, while the Venus switch stands out for its low-pitched, muted sound and buttery, gummy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, but rest assured that both switches offer quality and unique characteristics for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Medium Tactile or the TTC Venus switch, you should think about your preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a seamless, nearly frictionless glide coupled with a captivating "Q-texture" for a smooth and engaging typing experience, then the TTC Venus linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align best with your personal preferences and typing style.
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