Outemu Blue vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Outemu Blue and the TTC Venus. The Outemu Blue is well-known for its clicky nature, providing a satisfying audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its unique internal design, offering a smooth and frictionless keystroke experience with a subtle "Q-texture" feel. While the Outemu Blue is favored for its satisfying tactile feedback, the TTC Venus is praised for its smooth and almost buttery keystrokes. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences in typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the TTC Venus, we can see that they each offer unique sound profiles based on their construction. The Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and clearer sound profile with a higher pitch, ideal for those who enjoy a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Venus's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to those who prefer a softer and less pronounced typing sound. While both materials offer distinct sound qualities, they cater to different preferences in keyboard switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Blue utilizes a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more rounded typing experience. In contrast, the Venus incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile that enhances clarity and resonance during typing. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer their own advantages in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for typing feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Blue and the TTC Venus comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While the Blue's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provide a balanced typing experience with sharpness and depth, the Venus's POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing offer a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a softer, deeper tone, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that caters to a variety of user preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, there are notable differences. The Outemu Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Venus's 45 grams, making the Blue switch slightly heavier to press down initially. However, the bottom out force of the Outemu Blue is unknown, while the TTC Venus has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is considered medium-light. The difference in actuation force between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Outemu Blue requiring a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TTC Venus may be the better option, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Outemu Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Venus switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue switch. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keypress for some users. Overall, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so the difference in feel may not be significant for most users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Blue switch is best known for its loud and clicky sound, which is reminiscent of a typewriter. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch is described as having a low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile. This means that the Venus switch offers a quieter and softer typing experience compared to the Blue switch. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Blue switch is typically known for its tactile feedback and audible click upon actuation. In contrast, the TTC Venus linear switch is described as offering a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. This means that the Venus switch provides a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation, with minimal resistance and a refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a loud and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the TTC Venus linear switch would be the better option. Keep in mind that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for you, so it is recommended to test out different switches to see which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, you should opt for the Outemu Blue if you prioritize a more pronounced and audible typing experience, along with a light actuation force. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and effortless keystroke with a unique tactile sensation, the TTC Venus linear switch with its Q-texture and light actuation force would be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, as both switches offer distinct qualities suited to different typing styles and preferences.
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