KTT Phalaenopsis vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, there are distinct characteristics that make each one unique. The Phalaenopsis offers a light actuation force of 37g and a satisfying tactile bump, making typing effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Venus features a smooth and frictionless glide with a textured surface that provides a matte sensation for a unique typing experience. While the Phalaenopsis is categorized as having a deep, stepped, and pronounced sound, the Venus is classified as having a buttery, gummy, frictionless feel with a low-pitched, mild, muted, neutral, polished, and subdued touch. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision on the switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the TTC Venus, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their bottom housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, the Phalaenopsis's top housing utilizes polycarbonate, creating a sound profile that is sharper and crisper, while the Venus opts for a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their bottom housing, the KTT Phalaenopsis and TTC Venus differ in their choice of top housing material. The Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Venus's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Interestingly, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when a key is released.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and TTC Venus play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. While both switches benefit from the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in their bottom housing, their choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound quality. The Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper sound, whereas the Venus's POM top housing creates a deeper sound. Ultimately, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users make informed decisions based on their sound preferences.
Weight
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Venus linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis requires 50 grams, while the Venus requires 52 grams. The Phalaenopsis provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch. In contrast, the Venus offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance. Both switches fall within the realm of lighter forces, making them both ideal choices for users who prefer a lighter touch while typing.
Travel distance
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Phalaenopsis being slightly longer than the Venus. Gamers may prefer the Venus switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Phalaenopsis switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its deep and rich bassy sound profile, providing a satisfying thocky tone reminiscent of a low frequency thud. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound with a hint of thocky characteristics, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that's quieter and softer. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Phalaenopsis emphasizing a deeper, richer sound while the Venus focuses on a smoother, quieter tone.
In terms of feel, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a stepped tactile sensation, providing a two-stage keystroke experience with discernible pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch is praised for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished feel, offering a smooth, fluid, and effortless typing experience without any sense of resistance or friction. While the Phalaenopsis accentuates a more stepped tactile feel, the Venus boasts a seamless and uniform typing sensation that's approachable and comfortable for most users.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis provides a delightful typing experience with its deep bassy sound and stepped tactile feel, while the Venus showcases a smooth, engaging sound profile with a buttery, gummy, and polished typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches promise to deliver satisfaction and comfort, ensuring that each keystroke is a pleasurable and efficient endeavor whether you prefer a bolder tactile feedback or a smoother linear response.
Conclusion
In summary, when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a light actuation force and a discernible tactile bump for satisfying keystrokes, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch with its 50g tactile force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a very light actuation force for rapid typing, a seamless glide with a unique "Q-texture" sensation, and a muted sound signature for a quieter typing experience, then the TTC Venus linear switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Mentioned in this article
