Outemu Lotus vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options in the linear switch category. The Lotus is known for its smoothness. On the other hand, the Venus is praised for its innovative internal design that offers a unique typing experience with a delicate balance between smoothness and tactile feedback. While the Lotus provides consistency, the Venus stands out with its characteristic Q-texture that adds a springy resistance, reminiscent of biting into a chewy mochi or tapioca pearl. Both switches offer their own set of advantages, but each caters to different preferences. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the TTC Venus switches both offer unique sound profiles, although they differ in composition. The Lotus features a nylon top housing that creates a deep and fuller sound, while the Venus utilizes a POM top housing that produces a more muted and deeper sound. In terms of the bottom housing, the Lotus uses nylon, which absorbs sound and results in a duller sound profile. In contrast, the Venus employs a polycarbonate bottom housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound, especially noticeable during bottom-out keystrokes.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Lotus and the TTC Venus switches, they both aim to enhance the typing experience through their distinct sound profiles. The Lotus's nylon top housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Venus's POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound that is relatively more muted. On the bottom housing side, the Lotus's nylon material absorbs sound for a duller sound, while the Venus's polycarbonate material contributes to a clearer and resonant sound profile. These factors ultimately influence the overall typing experience and the sound produced during keystrokes.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on a switch, it becomes evident that each material contributes differently to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Lotus's nylon providing a fuller sound and the Venus's polycarbonate producing a sharper sound. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, with the Lotus's nylon creating a rounder sound profile and the Venus's POM offering a deeper and more muted sound. In essence, while the materials may vary between the Lotus and Venus switches, they both play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience and sound produced.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is clear that the Lotus has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Venus. The Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it light in both categories. On the other hand, the Venus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lotus make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming sessions. However, the Venus provides a slightly heavier push feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Lotus has the shorter travel distance compared to the Venus. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the Lotus for its shorter travel distance, providing a more immediate feedback when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper press and more tactile feel may opt for the Venus with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
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 Lotus 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 TTC Venus linear switch is known for its low-pitched and muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. The sound produced is described as neutral and subdued, with a thocky quality that adds a deep, rich tone to each keystroke. This unique auditory experience adds a satisfying element to typing on the Venus switch, enveloping each keystroke in a subdued auditory embrace. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Venus linear switch is recognized for its buttery and frictionless typing experience. These qualities provide a smooth and uniform keystroke sensation, making typing effortless and seamless. The switch also has a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Venus switch's internal configuration ensures a seamless glide during typing, with a springy resistance reminiscent of biting into a chewy mochi or tapioca pearl. This balance of qualities makes each keypress on the Venus linear switch both smooth and engaging.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lotus linear switch and TTC Venus linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switch's characteristics were not provided, the Venus switch is praised for its low-pitched, muted sound profile and buttery, frictionless typing experience. Both switches promise a unique and engaging typing experience, with the Venus switch standing out for its distinct internal configuration and balance of qualities. Depending on your preferences in sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that every keystroke is both smooth and engaging.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Lotus with 50 grams might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams with a unique "matte" sensation and Q-texture, the Venus could be the better choice. If you appreciate a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound profile, the Venus might be more appealing to you. Additionally, if you prefer a buttery, gummy, or frictionless typing experience, the Venus offers these characteristics. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
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