HMX SU vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the HMX SU and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX SU and the TTC Venus are two compelling linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The HMX SU, renowned for its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, offers a subtle yet deep sound profile, delivering a typing experience that is both robust and satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback without being overly loud. In contrast, the TTC Venus distinguishes itself with a unique internal design that ensures a smooth, frictionless glide, while its light actuation and muted sound signature provide an effortlessly springy feel that's reminiscent of the chewy texture of mochi. This appealing combination makes the Venus particularly desirable for users seeking rapid, quiet typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths: the HMX SU is ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile sound experience, while the TTC Venus shines in delivering a gentle, subdued interaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX SU and the TTC Venus in terms of housing materials, notable contrasts emerge, particularly in the top housing. The HMX SU utilizes nylon for its top housing, characterized by its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily because nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a subdued auditory experience that resonates warmly. In contrast, the TTC Venus employs POM (polyoxymethylene) in its top housing, which offers a unique and pleasant sound profile, albeit with similar deep and muted characteristics. Both materials create acoustic environments that facilitate a rich sound experience; therefore, while the specific materials differ, the end result in sound quality does converge toward a comparably enjoyable typing experience.
Examining the bottom housing materials reveals a more significant disparity between the HMX SU and TTC Venus. The HMX SU features nylon in its bottom housing, mirroring the nylon used up top, which reinforces the full sound profile and consistency across the switch. This choice emphasizes a unified auditory experience that leans towards a rounded and mellow timbre. Conversely, the TTC Venus employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which shifts the overall sound profile to a sharper, high-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, fundamentally altering the transition from key press to bottoming out, and creating a different tactile feel compared to the HMX SU.
In summary, while the HMX SU and TTC Venus share some similarities in terms of the acoustic qualities of their top housings, the bottom housings provide distinct auditory experiences that dramatically influence the overall feel and sound profile of each switch. The nylon construction of the HMX SU promotes a cohesive sound signature throughout, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing of the TTC Venus introduces a sharper distinction—making the typing experience markedly unique in terms of auditory feedback. Ultimately, the contrasting materials underscore the importance of housing composition in determining the acoustic and tactile results of mechanical switches, showing that material choices can heavily influence the performance even if some aspects may feel somewhat familiar.
Weight
Both the HMX SU linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch exhibit similar actuation forces, with both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This consistency means users can expect comparable responsiveness in their typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the two switches diverge slightly: the HMX SU has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter, while the TTC Venus has a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The lighter bottom out force of the HMX SU may offer greater comfort for extended typing sessions, appealing to those who prefer less resistance. In contrast, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the TTC Venus could provide a more substantial feel, which some users might find preferable for enhanced feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two may hinge on whether a user values a lighter touch or a stronger push within their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX SU linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, the HMX SU measures 3.6 mm, while the TTC Venus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that the SU switch provides a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate feedback feel. On the other hand, the Venus, with its longer travel distance, might be better suited for those who appreciate a more substantial depth and tactile experience when pressing keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding speed versus depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 HMX SU linear switch offers a subtle and relatively deep profile, contributing to a typing experience that feels both refined and rich. This thocky characteristic gives it a soft "thud" or "knock" when pressed, creating a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists appreciate. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch boasts a more muted and subdued sound signature, which can be characterized as low-pitched and neutral. This ensures a quieter typing experience, making it well-suited for environments where noise may be a concern. While both switches produce sounds that are comforting and pleasant, the HMX SU leans towards a stronger auditory presence compared to the TTC Venus's more restrained approach.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX SU linear switch remains more subjective in its description, but the TTC Venus offers a uniquely smooth and frictionless typing experience. This frictionless quality is akin to a buttery smoothness, contributing to an effortlessly enjoyable keystroke experience. The Venus also delivers a gummy feel when bottomed out, reminiscent of bouncing on trampoline-like resistance, which adds to the overall playful sensation of typing. While the specifics of the HMX SU's feel are not articulated, it’s likely that both switches can provide smooth keystrokes, with the Venus presenting a more specialized experience characterized by buoyancy and fluidity.
In conclusion, while there is a notable distinction in sound profiles, with the HMX SU providing a deeper thocky experience and the TTC Venus featuring a muted, low-pitched signature, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience. The Venus's frictionless glide and unique gummy bottoming feel set it apart as more specialized, although the overall performance of the HMX SU could still align closely depending on its design embeddings. Whether one prefers a richer sound or a softer touch, both the HMX SU and TTC Venus deliver enjoyable results tailored to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the HMX SU linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter switch with a soft, thocky sound profile, the HMX SU is a great option. Its bottom out force of 50 grams allows for effortless typing, making it an excellent choice for users who type quickly or require a more delicate touch. Additionally, the SU's pronounced sound character offers a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance your typing experience, especially in quieter settings where sound matters.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that provides a unique tactile experience with its buttery and frictionless feel, the TTC Venus might be your best bet. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 52 grams, it strikes a balanced approach to those who prefer a medium-light feel without compromising on comfort. Its muted sound profile makes it suitable for a wide range of environments, from shared workspaces to quiet home setups, allowing for extended typing sessions without disturbing others. The Venus's springy texture might appeal to those who appreciate a more dynamic experience, akin to the delightful sensation of mochi, making it a distinctive choice for both casual and avid typists. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, sound sensitivity, and overall keyboard experience preference.
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