Gateron Type S vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type S and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're delighted to introduce the Gateron Type S, a flagship offering from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," and the TTC Venus, both linear mechanical keyboard switches with unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Type S is known for its weightier 65g bottom-out and neutral yet deeper acoustic sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its innovative internal design, offering a smooth and engaging "matte" sensation with very light actuation. While the Type S is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued,' the Venus boasts a variety of characteristics like 'Buttery,' 'Gummy,' 'Frictionless,' 'Low-pitched,' and more. These general pointers can help you choose between the two switches based on your preferred keystroke feel and sound profile; 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
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Type S and TTC Venus both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Type S utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Venus features a POM top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing. The POM top housing produces a deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
While the Type S and Venus differ in their housing materials, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Type S provides a consistent and satisfying sound profile for both pressing down on a key and releasing it. On the other hand, the split housing materials of the Venus allow for a distinctive sound when bottoming out a key versus when letting go of a key. The POM top housing of the Venus contributes to a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while the polycarbonate bottom housing adds a sharper and crisper sound to the mix.
In summary, the choice between the Gateron Type S and TTC Venus ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. If you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with a softer feel, the Type S with its nylon housing may be the better option. However, if you enjoy a more unique sound profile with a mix of deep, muted tones and sharp, clear notes, the Venus with its split POM and polycarbonate housing may be more appealing. Whichever switch you choose, both the Type S and Venus offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Type S linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we see a clear distinction in weight. The Type S has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Venus is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, ideal for users who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a heavier or lighter feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the TTC Venus has the shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron Type S. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the TTC Venus with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gateron Type S with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences.
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 S 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 S linear switch offers a neutral and subdued acoustic experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch is known for its low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and softer typing sound. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Type S leaning towards a deeper and neutral tone, while the Venus delivers a more mellow and quiet sound. Ultimately, the sound of a switch also depends on external factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and overall build quality.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Type S linear switch does not have specific descriptors provided in the information. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch is described as providing a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. This implies that the Venus switch offers a smooth, uniform, and effortless keystroke, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the Venus switch minimizes resistance and friction, providing a polished and refined typing feel. With a mild and approachable typing experience, the Venus switch caters to a wide range of users seeking a comfortable and effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Type S linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Type S provides a neutral and subdued sound with a weightier keystroke, the Venus offers a low-pitched, muted sound with a light actuation and unique matte sensation. The feel of the Type S is not specified, but the Venus is recognized for its buttery, gummy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.NSIndexPathIf one prefers a deeper and neutral sound with a weightier keystroke, the Gateron Type S would be a suitable choice, while those seeking a more mellow and quiet sound with a smooth and polished typing feel may find the TTC Venus linear switch more appealing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Type S linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy keystroke, then the Gateron Type S with a bottom out force of 65 grams would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force, then the TTC Venus with a bottom-out force of 52 grams would be more suitable. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a switch with a more neutral and subdued sound profile, the Type S would be a good option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound characteristics, the Venus would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches should be based on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, sound signature, and typing feel.
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