Outemu Tom vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the TTC Venus, a linear switch, offer distinct characteristics for different preferences. The Tom is known for its precise tactile feedback, making it ideal for typists who prefer a noticeable bump with each keypress. On the other hand, the Venus stands out for its innovative internal design, providing a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience with a unique "Q-texture" feel. While the Tom offers a traditional tactile experience, the Venus boasts a light actuation force and a muted sound signature for a more subdued 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom and the TTC Venus, we can see some clear differences. The Tom utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Venus features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users. Additionally, the Tom's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and clearer sound profile.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that both switches share similarities in their housing materials. For instance, both switches feature a polycarbonate housing component - the Tom's top housing and the Venus's bottom housing. This common material choice allows for a consistent quality of sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles within both switches. However, the split between the top and bottom housings results in a unique blend of sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether a user values a sharper sound profile or a deeper, more resonant sound, they can find their preference in either the Tom or Venus switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Tom and the TTC Venus comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The use of different housing materials in each switch creates distinct typing experiences, with the Tom offering a sharper and crisper sound due to its mix of polycarbonate and nylon, while the Venus provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM and polycarbonate combination. Individuals looking for a specific sound profile can carefully consider the housing materials of each switch to determine which aligns best with their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is evident that the Venus switch is lighter in both aspects. The Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Venus has a lower actuation force of 45 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Tom is unknown, while the Venus has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is considered medium-light. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Venus switch would be the ideal choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Tom switch, even though its bottom out force is unknown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we can see that the Tom has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Venus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Tom switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Venus switch provides a longer travel distance, which can offer a more satisfying and deeper keystroke for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular nowadays. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Tom 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for its undisclosed sound profile, while the TTC Venus linear switch is praised for its low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound characteristics. This means that the Venus switch offers a quieter and more bass-heavy typing experience compared to the Tom switch, which provides a mysterious sound quality that may appeal to those who prefer a less defined auditory feedback. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
As for the feel of these switches, the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer distinct tactile experiences. The Tom switch's feel quality is left unspecific, while the Venus switch is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished. While the Tom switch leaves room for interpretation, the Venus switch guarantees a smooth, uniform, and effortless typing sensation with a polished finish that minimizes friction. This means that users can expect a more refined and slick typing experience with the Venus switch compared to the Tom switch, which may appeal to those looking for a more tactile and responsive feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch each offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Tom switch's qualities remain a mystery, the Venus switch stands out for its low-pitched, muted sound profile and buttery, frictionless feel. Depending on personal preference, users may opt for the Venus switch for a quieter and smoother typing experience, or the Tom switch for a more enigmatic tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prioritize a light actuation force and smooth typing experience with a unique "matte" sensation, the TTC Venus linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a specific bottom out force, the Outemu Tom tactile switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Take into account what matters most to you in a keyboard switch to make the best choice for your typing experience.
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