Gateron Type A vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type A and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Type A and the TTC Venus, two linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits for different preferences. The Gateron Type A is known for its medium-weight feel and deep sound signature, making it a great compromise for those looking for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out with its innovative internal design, providing a smooth and frictionless glide paired with a unique "Q-texture" sensation. While the Type A is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued', the Venus offers a variety of characteristics including 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', and 'Thocky'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Type A and TTC Venus both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing, resulting in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Type A's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Venus's POM top housing produces a unique, muted sound with a deeper tone. In contrast, the Type A's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, whereas the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing generates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches highlights the importance of material composition in determining sound quality and feel during typing.
While the Gateron Type A and TTC Venus both prioritize the overall sound profile of their switches, the choice of housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The softer nylon top housing in the Type A creates a duller and rounder sound, while the POM top housing in the Venus offers a more muted sound with a deeper tone. On the other hand, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing in the Venus delivers a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the nylon bottom housing in the Type A. These differences in material composition result in distinct typing experiences, catering to users with specific preferences in sound and feel.
In conclusion, the housing materials used in the Gateron Type A and TTC Venus switches play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles and overall typing experiences. While both switches feature top and bottom housings made of different materials, the Type A's nylon housings focus on creating a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Venus's POM and polycarbonate housings aim to produce a more unique and sharp sound profile. Whether you prefer a duller, rounder sound or a sharper, clearer sound, the choice of housing material in these switches ensures that users can find a typing experience that suits their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Type A linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch both fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Type A requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, while the Venus only needs 45 grams to actuate and 52 grams to bottom out. This makes the Venus the lighter option of the two, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Type A offers a slightly stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Type A linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is clear that the Venus has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Type A's 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Venus being slightly shallower. Gamers may prefer the Venus for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Type A. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of uses. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch presents a low-pitched, muted sound that provides a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Type A leaning towards a deeper sound spectrum and the Venus providing a more subtle and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Type A linear switch's tactile description is unknown, while the TTC Venus linear switch is described as offering a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. This indicates that the Venus switch provides a smooth, uniform, and effortless keystroke, with a unique "matte" sensation that makes typing engaging and enjoyable. The Type A's feel remains a mystery in this comparison.
Taking into consideration the information provided, both the Gateron Type A linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Type A emphasizes a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature and unspecified feel, the Venus switch stands out for its light actuation, Q-texture, and low-pitched, muted sound. Depending on individual preferences for typing experience and sound profile, users can choose between the deep, subdued sound of the Type A or the smooth, engaging feel of the Venus switch. Ultimately, selecting either switch will likely result in a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Type A linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 55 grams and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Type A may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 52 grams and a unique "matte" sensation with a smooth and engaging typing experience, the Venus could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience, so choosing the one that aligns with your preferences will enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
Mentioned in this article
