Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and TTC Venus both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Tomcat (Heavy) is celebrated for its Ly stems, which deliver a super smooth typing experience complemented by a resonant sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy audible feedback without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch boasts a thoughtfully engineered internal design that merges a frictionless glide with a springy "Q-texture," reminiscent of the delightful tactile experience of chewy mochi or tapioca pearls. Its light actuation allows for rapid keystrokes, while the muted sound signature encourages a quieter typing session, ideal for shared workspaces. Choosing between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference—whether you prefer the resonant sound and buttery feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) or the smooth, subdued nature of the Venus. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
64g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the TTC Venus, notable differences emerge in how the two switches produce their respective sound profiles. The Tomcat (Heavy) features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile due to the rigidity of the material. This stiffer plastic allows for a clearer resonance, making it particularly beneficial for enthusiasts who enjoy RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate aids in producing vibrant lighting effects from the switches. In contrast, the Venus utilizes a POM top housing, which is designed to emit a deeper and more muted sound. This distinctive sound profile results from the material's inherent properties, offering a more rounded auditory experience that may appeal to those who prefer a softer acoustic ambiance.
The bottom housings of these two switches further illustrate a contrast in design philosophy and sound output. The Tomcat (Heavy) employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrasts sharply with the Venus, which is equipped with a polycarbonate bottom housing. Similar to its top housing, the polycarbonate in the Venus creates a sharper and more resonant sound. This dichotomy in materials showcases a deliberate approach in modifying the auditory characteristics of each switch, where the nylon in the Tomcat softens the sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate in the Venus enhances it, resulting in distinct experiences during use.
Overall, the differences and similarities in housing materials between the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and TTC Venus affect not only their sound profiles but also their tactile feedback. With the Tomcat’s nylon bottom dampening the sound and providing a fuller feel, users may experience a satisfying thock with each keystroke, particularly noticeable when bottoming out. Conversely, the Venus's dual polycarbonate composition delivers a more pronounced auditory response, especially when releasing a key, creating a sharper sound. If one were to desire a blend of both sound profiles, combining these switches in a keyboard may allow users to achieve a nuanced typing experience that exploits the strengths of each material.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Tomcat (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 64 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which provides a substantial feel that many users enjoy for a more tactile typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Venus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light range and making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its ease of pressing. As a result, the Tomcat (Heavy) may appeal to those who prefer a firmer key feel, while the Venus is favored by individuals who prioritize a lighter touch. Overall, the Tomcat is the heavier switch, while the Venus is lighter, making them distinctly different in terms of user experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Tomcat (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Venus features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Venus, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more tactile and hearty depth that some users prefer for a more pronounced key press experience. Therefore, those who favor quicker actions may lean towards the Tomcat, whereas users who enjoy a deeper feel in their key presses might opt for the Venus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it’s evident that each offers a distinct auditory experience. The Tomcat (Heavy) produces a resonant sound profile, suggesting it may possess deeper tonal qualities akin to a "thocky" sound, which typically provides a satisfying auditory feedback during each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Venus is characterized by a muted, low-pitched sound that emphasizes a subdued typing experience. It falls more into the neutral spectrum of mechanical keyboard sounds, with its subdued tone minimizing any disruptive noise, making it suitable for quieter environments without sacrificing the sense of typing fun.
In terms of feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) is renowned for its super smooth typing experience facilitated by its Ly stems. In contrast, the TTC Venus is equipped with a unique internal design that combines frictionless key travel with a springy sensation, akin to the enjoyable experience of biting into chewy mochi. The Venus's buttery and gummy characteristics provide a gentle yet engaging typing experience, while the frictionless nature ensures effortless key presses. Therefore, the feel of both switches leans toward smoothness, but the Tomcat leans more on a refined typing experience, whereas the Venus offers a more playful and dynamic tactile feedback.
Overall, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and TTC Venus linear switches present complementary yet distinct qualities. If you prefer a more resonant sound with potential for a deeper auditory response, the Tomcat (Heavy) could be your ideal choice. Conversely, if you favor a quieter, more subdued typing experience with unique tactile sensations, the Venus would serve you well. Both switches promise a smooth typing experience, yet they achieve it through different sound profiles and tactile characteristics, catering to varying user preferences in both audio and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more substantial, tactile feedback during typing, as well as a rich sound profile that can provide satisfying resonance with each keystroke, then the Tomcat (Heavy), with its 64-gram actuation force, may be the better option for you. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy a heavier press and appreciate that deeper, thocky sound. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter typing experience with the ability to type quickly and effortlessly, the 52-gram TTC Venus switch might be more suitable. Its frictionless and buttery feel fosters rapid input without exhausting your fingers, making it excellent for those long typing sessions or rapid gaming scenarios. Additionally, the muted and subdued sound signature of the Venus allows for discreet typing, which could be advantageous in quieter environments. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you value a heavier, resonant typing experience or a lighter, smoother touch.