TTC Speed Silver vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Speed Silver and TTC Venus stand out as excellent options for different preferences. The Speed Silver is perfect for those seeking a fast and precise typing experience, with its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance providing quick and effortless actuation. On the other hand, the Venus offers a unique internal configuration that prioritizes a seamless glide and a distinctive textured sensation, making each keystroke smooth and engaging. While the Speed Silver is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the Venus boasts a range of descriptors like buttery, gummy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, muted, neutral, polished, subdued, and thocky. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific qualities will help you make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Speed Silver and Venus switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Venus's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing delivers a crisper and more resonant sound. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the TTC Speed Silver and Venus switches offer unique advantages. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Speed Silver enhances its sound profile and makes it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts, while the POM top housing of the Venus provides a distinctive, deeper sound experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver offers a softer, more absorbing sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus ensures a clear and resonant sound. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback, appealing to a variety of mechanical keyboard users.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housings of each switch allows for a balanced combination of qualities. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities ensures that users experience a comprehensive range of tactile and sound feedback when typing on either the TTC Speed Silver or Venus switches, providing a well-rounded mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Speed Silver requires 55 grams while the Venus requires 52 grams, making the Venus slightly lighter in terms of the force needed to fully press down a key. Both switches fall into the category of medium-light switches, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the desired actuation and bottom out forces for a typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the TTC Speed Silver and TTC Venus linear switches, it is evident that the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Venus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The difference between the two may seem minor, but it can have a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience for users. Those who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Speed Silver with its shorter travel distance, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Venus with its longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, which cater to different preferences in keyboard feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 TTC Speed Silver switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch offers a low-pitched, muted, subdued sound that provides a softer and quieter typing experience. The Venus switch also has a thocky quality, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, as well as other factors such as your keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch provides a buttery, gummy, frictionless feel that is smooth, effortless, and engaging. Both switches fall into the mild category, providing approachable qualities for most users. Again, the decision between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference for typing feel and the type of typing experience you prefer.
Overall, the TTC Speed Silver and TTC Venus switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a faster and more precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Speed Silver may be the better choice for you. However, if you value a unique and engaging typing experience with a low-pitched, thocky sound and a buttery, gummy feel, the Venus switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for different types of typing experiences, and you can expect similar performance in terms of actuation and response from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, the Speed Silver might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique "matte" sensation, smooth and engaging presses, and a muted sound signature, the Venus could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, but the Speed Silver leans towards a more neutral sound profile and mild feel, while the Venus provides a low-pitched, subdued sound and a frictionless, buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.