SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TTC Venus are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer distinct typing experiences. The Polaris Gray is ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy typing feel and a clean, clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its unique internal design that provides a smooth, almost frictionless glide combined with a "Q-texture" sensation reminiscent of chewy mochi or tapioca pearls. While the Polaris Gray is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and thocky, the Venus is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, muted, neutral, polished, subdued, and thocky. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities, offering a variety of tactile experiences for different preferences. 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TTC Venus lies in their top housing materials. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Venus boasts a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between them will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Polaris Gray and the Venus feature polycarbonate. This consistency in material choice means that both switches will share the same sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that polycarbonate brings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for easy customization with RGB lighting, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. As a result, users can expect similar sound and feel characteristics when typing on switches with polycarbonate bottom housings, whether it's the Polaris Gray or the Venus.
When comparing the overall sound profile and feel of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TTC Venus, it's clear that the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the user experience. While the Polaris Gray offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the Venus provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound and feel, as well as any specific customization needs such as RGB lighting. Regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a high-quality typing experience thanks to the carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Gray has a relatively high bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience, while its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Venus switch has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it lighter to type on overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Venus switch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more tactile and heavier push feel may lean towards the Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 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 Polaris Gray 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 full and deliberate key press may opt for the Polaris Gray. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch presents a low-pitched and subdued sound, with a muted quality that minimizes noise. Both switches share a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments. Depending on factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used, users can expect similar results in sound from both switches.
In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray switch is described as mild and polished, delivering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Comparatively, the TTC Venus switch offers a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches have mild qualities, providing approachable typing sensations for most users. With their unique tactile characteristics, users can anticipate distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences from each switch.
Overall, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Gray provides a clean, clacky sound and a bouncy typing experience, while the Venus showcases a muted, captivating sound and a smooth, engaging typing sensation. Users looking for deep, satisfying keystrokes may prefer the Polaris Gray, while those seeking a softer, more subdued typing experience may enjoy the Venus. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy key press and enjoy a clean and clacky sound, the Polaris Gray may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter key press and a more muted, smooth sound profile, along with a buttery and gummy typing feel, the TTC Venus could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound characteristics.
Mentioned in this article
