Outemu Phoenix vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, and the TTC Venus, a linear switch, presents a unique decision to be made. The Phoenix is known for its under-skirt click mechanism that provides a crunchy and polished typing experience with a crystalline and sparkling feel. On the other hand, the Venus stands out for its ingenious internal design that offers a buttery and polished typing experience with a unique "Q-texture" that adds a matte sensation to every keystroke. While the Phoenix provides a distinct clicky sound profile, the Venus offers a nearly frictionless glide and a muted sound signature. 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
62g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Phoenix and the TTC Venus both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. However, the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing is favored for its translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Venus's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience compared to the Phoenix.
Despite their differences in top housing material, both the Phoenix and the Venus feature polycarbonate bottom housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to that of the top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the bottom housing, like in the top housing, makes it compatible with RGB lighting effects for a visually appealing typing experience.
The variation in top and bottom housing materials between the Outemu Phoenix and the TTC Venus allows for a distinct tactile and auditory experience. The qualities of each material impact different aspects of the switch's performance - the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. While both switches share similar characteristics due to their polycarbonate bottom housings, the unique properties of the Phoenix's top housing and the Venus's POM top housing contribute to their individual sound profiles and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we see that the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Venus has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making the Phoenix the heavier of the two. The actuation force of the Phoenix is None grams, while the Venus has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that the Venus requires a lighter force to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Phoenix will provide a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel compared to the lighter touch required for the Venus. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Venus for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Phoenix for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the TTC Venus linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Phoenix allows for a quicker response time and may be preferred by gamers looking for a more immediate key press. On the other hand, the Venus offers a slightly longer travel distance which can provide a more satisfying depth to the key press for users who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press experience.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Phoenix clicky switch is described as having a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a softer and quieter auditory experience. The Phoenix switch gives a more tactile and audible feedback with each press, while the Venus switch offers a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, providing a smooth, uniform, and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance and a gentle keypress feel. The Venus switch's "Q-texture" adds a unique matte sensation, making each keystroke engaging and smooth.
Overall, both switches offer unique and distinct qualities. The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crisp and tactile typing experience with a crunchy sound, while the TTC Venus linear switch offers a smooth and effortless typing sensation with a low-pitched and muted sound profile. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver satisfying results, ensuring a pleasant and engaging typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are someone who enjoys a unique and sparkling typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Phoenix clicky switch with its crunchy sound and polished feel might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, the TTC Venus linear switch with its Q-texture and buttery feel could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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