SP-Star Duck vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Duck and TTC Venus offer unique experiences to meet different preferences. The Duck switch provides a subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and crisp sound profile, making it perfect for those who prefer a more polished and mild typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its innovative internal configuration that offers a smooth and nearly frictionless glide, paired with a "Q-texture" that adds a satisfying springy resistance. This switch ensures rapid and effortless typing with a muted sound signature, appealing to users who value a buttery and low-pitched 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the TTC Venus, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. However, while the Duck opts for polycarbonate in its bottom housing as well, the Venus features a POM bottom housing. The POM housing of the Venus creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a unique auditory experience compared to the sharper sound of the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing.
The utilization of different materials in the top and bottom housings of the SP-Star Duck and the TTC Venus allows for a varied tactile experience when using these switches. When pressing down on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Duck, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. With the Duck and Venus featuring different materials in their bottom housing, users can expect a distinct tactile sensation when using these switches.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the SP-Star Duck and the TTC Venus share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall auditory experience for users of both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Overall, while the bottom housing materials may vary between the Duck and Venus, the shared use of polycarbonate in their top housing ensures a consistent and pleasing sound profile for both switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch reveals some differences. The Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is medium, while its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Venus has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is considered medium-light. The Duck provides a more consistent force throughout the keystroke, while the Venus offers a lighter initial press but a slightly heavier bottom out. The lighter actuation force of the Venus may appeal to users who prefer a softer touch, while the Duck's heavier bottom out force might be preferred by those looking for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall into the category of traditional travel distances, with the Duck being slightly longer than the Venus. Gamers may prefer the Venus switch for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the Duck switch. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable amount of travel distance for typing and gaming, but the Venus switch may be favored for its slightly shorter distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck 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 Duck tactile switch offers a clean and crispy sound profile, making it a suitable choice for most intents and purposes. It provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it versatile for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch is known for its low-pitched, muted sound signature that adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing experience. The subdued auditory embrace of the Venus switch ensures a quieter and more subtle sound compared to other switches, enhancing the overall typing atmosphere.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience with its gentle tactility. Described as buttery and polished, the Duck switch offers a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the TTC Venus linear switch boasts a buttery and frictionless typing sensation, offering an effortless and uniform keystroke experience. Additionally, the gummy characteristic of the Venus switch adds a unique feel reminiscent of bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, creating an engaging typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Duck switch excels in providing a clean and crispy sound profile with a gentle tactility, the Venus switch stands out with its low-pitched, muted sound signature and buttery, frictionless typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the more neutral and versatile Duck switch or the unique and engaging Venus switch to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying results for keyboard enthusiasts seeking different tactile and auditory experiences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star Duck tactile switch or the TTC Venus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences in typing experience. If you prefer a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique "matte" sensation, smooth and engaging keystrokes, and a light actuation for rapid typing, then the TTC Venus linear switch would suit your needs perfectly. The Duck offers a neutral sound profile, while the Venus provides a low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound experience. In terms of feel, the Duck offers a mild and buttery typing sensation, while the Venus provides a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound profile (SP-Star Duck) or smooth keystrokes and engaging typing experience (TTC Venus).
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