HMX Sunset Gleam vs. TTC Venus

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Sunset Gleam and the TTC Venus both offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX Sunset Gleam, often referred to as the Duck Duck switch, is celebrated for its perfect blend of materials that result in a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, along with the exquisite factory lube that HMX is recognized for. This switch provides a balanced experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy both typing and gaming with a pronounced acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Venus impresses with its innovative internal design, offering a smooth and frictionless glide accompanied by a springy "Q-texture," reminiscent of the delightful chewiness of mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch's light actuation allows for effortless typing, while its muted sound profile ensures a quieter environment — perfect for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. Each switch has its own merits, appealing to varying needs, whether you favor a tactile feedback or a silent glide. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

TTC Venus Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Sunset Gleam and the TTC Venus, distinct differences emerge that significantly influence their sound profiles. The Sunset Gleam features a polycarbonate top housing, which is associated with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, which resonates more clearly. In contrast, the Venus uses a POM top housing, characterized by a deeper and more muted sound profile. This variation can be attributed to the inherent properties of POM, which absorb sound more effectively, thus creating a unique auditory experience that diverges from the clarity associated with polycarbonate.

The bottom housing materials offer another layer of contrast, showcasing the classic nylon used in the Sunset Gleam versus the polycarbonate utilized in the Venus. The nylon bottom housing of the Sunset Gleam contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic makeup, which effectively dampens sound and creates a rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing shares the clear and resonant sound characteristics of its top housing, resulting in a more consistent and higher-pitched auditory output throughout the switch. This juxtaposition between nylon and polycarbonate further emphasizes the differences in sound profiles between the two switches.

In terms of overall sound experience, the interplay between the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role. With the Sunset Gleam, the combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom evens out the switch's sonority, delivering both clarity and depth. Meanwhile, the Venus's use of POM on the top and polycarbonate on the bottom creates a sharp-sounding switch that may feel more crisp but lacks the fuller characteristics of the Sunset Gleam. Thus, while both switches can produce satisfying results, the materials chosen intricately determine their respective auditory signatures, leading to distinctive user experiences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we observe differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varying user preferences. The Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to press the keys. In contrast, the Venus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, offering a medium-light typing experience. This means that while both switches are relatively similar in terms of operation, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option overall, favoring those who prefer a gentler keypress, while the Venus might appeal more to users seeking a fuller, more substantial feel during use due to its heavier forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we find that the Sunset Gleam features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Venus offers a slightly longer distance of 3.8 mm. This difference may impact user experience, as the shorter travel distance of the Sunset Gleam can provide quicker response times, making it a favorable choice for gamers who prefer rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Venus, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced feel when pressing keys, avoiding the abruptness that can accompany shorter distances. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for responsiveness or depth in key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch stands out for its subtle top-out and satisfying clack, which can enhance the acoustic profile of your mechanical keyboard. This combination of features suggests that while it may produce a pleasant and noticeable sound when the keys are pressed, it likely does not reach excessively loud levels. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch is characterized by its muted and subdued sound signature, emphasizing a softer and quieter typing experience. The Venus’s low-pitched, thocky tones deliver a warm bass-heavy sound that, when paired with its internal design, fosters an ambient typing experience that minimizes disruption. Therefore, if you're looking for an auditory experience, the Sunset Gleam may provide a more pronounced click, while the Venus is more restrained in its acoustic output.

In terms of feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a typing experience that is likely nuanced yet does not have specified descriptors, leaving some of its tactile characteristics unknown. Conversely, the TTC Venus switch boasts a range of tactile features, including buttery and frictionless keystrokes that create a seamless typing experience. Its gummy quality gives a unique sensation when bottoming out, similar to bouncing on a trampoline, which may appeal to those who enjoy a cozy keystroke. Additionally, the Venus switch's polished feel enhances the overall experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Thus, while the Sunset Gleam’s specific feel remains ambiguous, the Venus excels in providing a distinctive tactile sensation that makes typing feel effortless.

In summary, the HMX Sunset Gleam and TTC Venus linear switches present two distinct options for different typing preferences. The Sunset Gleam features a satisfying sound profile with a notable click, potentially catering to those who enjoy a more audible feedback when typing. In contrast, the Venus offers a more muted sound with a soft, yet pleasant, acoustic experience, complemented by its smooth and frictionless tactile feel. Ultimately, if you prefer a vibrant auditory feedback with potentially more nuanced tactile responses, you might lean towards the Sunset Gleam, while those looking for a delightful but understated experience will likely find the TTC Venus meets their needs.

Conclusion

To summarize, your choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam and the TTC Venus linear switches should be guided by your specific preferences in typing experience and sound. If you prefer a lighter keypress that allows for rapid and effortless typing, the Sunset Gleam is an excellent option, especially as it combines a satisfying clack with HMX's renowned factory lube for a refined, polished feel. This makes it a great choice for those who engage in fast typing or gaming, where responsiveness is key. On the other hand, the TTC Venus is ideal if you enjoy a slightly heavier touch with a more subdued typing experience, characterized by a low-pitched, muted sound signature and a unique, buttery feel. This switch is well-suited for quieter environments, such as an office, where you don’t want to disturb others, yet still seek a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches hinges on whether you value a lightweight, lively response or a balanced, muted, and refined typing sensation.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

TTC Venus Linear

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn more