SP-Star RedBlue vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star RedBlue and TTC Venus both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The RedBlue is a linear switch that provides a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. It is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out with its ingenious internal configuration, offering a seamless glide and a distinctive "Q-texture" that adds a springy resistance to each keystroke. This switch is known for its very light actuation and muted sound signature, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Subdued', and 'Thocky'. While the RedBlue is perfect for those who prefer a softer typing experience, the Venus excels in providing a smooth and engaging typing sensation. 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
57g
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 housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the TTC Venus differ in their top housing composition. The RedBlue features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate results in a more resonant sound due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Venus boasts a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users of these two switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the RedBlue and the Venus utilize polycarbonate material. This choice in housing material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to that of the top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate also enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on these switches. While the bottom housing may not be as aesthetically visible as the top housing, its impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch should not be overlooked.
Overall, the differences in top housing material between the RedBlue and the Venus result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The RedBlue with its polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and clearer sound profile, ideal for those seeking a more precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Venus with its POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. Despite the differences in top housing material, the shared use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing ensures a consistent level of sound clarity and resonance across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The RedBlue has an actuation force of None grams, making it effortless to trigger keystrokes, while the Venus requires 45 grams of force for actuation. However, both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the RedBlue at 57 grams and the Venus at 52 grams. This means that while the Venus may require slightly more force to register a keystroke, both switches offer a similar light typing experience when fully pressed. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing feel may prefer the RedBlue, while those seeking a bit more resistance may opt for the Venus.
Travel distance
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The RedBlue has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys compared to the Venus. However, the 0.2 mm difference between the two may not be significant enough to be noticeable in everyday use. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the RedBlue being on the slightly longer side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and whether a slightly longer or slightly shorter travel distance is preferred for optimal typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is best known for its low-pitched sound profile, creating a mellow and bass-heavy tone that is satisfying to the ears. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a muted sound signature that is softer and quieter, enveloping each keystroke in a subdued auditory embrace. Both switches fall under the category of neutral switches, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments. Additionally, both switches are described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the RedBlue linear switch is characterized by a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The switch is also described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish for sleek typing. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch is known for its buttery and frictionless typing experience, ensuring seamless, effortless, and uniform key presses. The switch also offers a gummy sensation when bottoming out, giving a unique typing experience akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches fall under the category of mild switches, providing a comfortable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the RedBlue switch provides a low-pitched and mellow sound with a polished and mild typing experience, the Venus switch offers a muted sound profile with a buttery and frictionless typing sensation. Both switches ensure a moderate actuation force requirement and a comfortable typing experience suitable for various users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch or the TTC Venus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences. If you enjoy a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a relatively neutral feel, the RedBlue may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a very light actuation with a unique "Q-texture" for a smooth and engaging typing sensation, along with a muted, low-pitched sound, the TTC Venus switch could be the better choice. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities matter most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, your choice should align with your desired typing experience and sound profile.
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