TTC Venus vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the TTC Venus and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Venus and Gateron Weightlessness each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The TTC Venus is a linear switch known for its innovative internal design that promotes a smooth and frictionless keystroke, akin to the delightful sensation of biting into chewy mochi. With its light actuation, users can enjoy rapid and effortless typing, complemented by a muted sound profile that provides a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch features a tactile bump that delivers a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, making it a great choice for users who appreciate the sensation of each keystroke while typing. Its balanced sound profile aligns well with its tactile characteristics, offering a satisfying auditory experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference: if you desire a buttery-smooth glide, the Venus is the way to go; however, if you prefer a tactile interaction with each press, the Gateron Weightlessness might be your ideal choice. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The comparison between the housing materials of the TTC Venus and the Gateron Weightlessness presents a fascinating look at how different plastics influence sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Venus features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound. This characteristic results from POM's unique composition, which allows it to create a pleasing auditory experience that lacks the sharpness often associated with harder materials. In contrast, the Weightlessness employs a nylon top housing, also contributing to a deeper sound but characterized as fuller rather than muted. Both materials share a softness compared to their polycarbonate counterparts, ensuring that both switches can deliver a satisfying auditory feedback, albeit with slightly differing tonal qualities.
On the bottom side, the materials provide distinct contrasts that further define the sound profile and feel of each switch. The TTC Venus is fitted with a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is stiffer and has a sharper, clearer sound profile than nylon. This choice enhances the overall crispness of the sound, making key releases resonate with more clarity. Meanwhile, the Weightlessness also uses a nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the deeper and rounder sound profile established by its top housing. This combination of softer plastics in the Weightlessness contributes to a consistent voice across both components, resulting in sound absorption that produces a fuller auditory experience without the higher-pitched clarity of polycarbonate.
In summary, while both switches demonstrate a commitment to delivering unique sound profiles through their respective housing materials, they accomplish this in different ways. The TTC Venus blends a soft POM top with a sharper polycarbonate bottom, leading to a contrast between muted key sounds and crisp releases. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness maintains a uniformity of sound by utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings, ultimately achieving a deeper and rounder sound that supports a cohesive auditory performance. Users may find that, regardless of these distinctions, the tactile experience and the quality of the keystrokes remain satisfactory, providing an enjoyable typing experience whether through the varied nuances of the Venus or the consistent depths of the Weightlessness.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Venus linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges in terms of actuation force, while the bottom out force for the Weightlessness remains unknown. The TTC Venus has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. However, since the bottom out force for the Weightlessness is unavailable, we cannot make a definitive comparison in that regard. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter switch, the TTC Venus is the preferable choice, while the Gateron Weightlessness caters to those desiring a heavier actuation experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Venus linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch differ in their travel distances, with the Venus measuring 3.8 mm and the Weightlessness at 3.4 mm. This makes the Gateron Weightlessness the shorter switch, while the TTC Venus offers a longer travel distance. For enthusiasts who prioritize responsiveness, the 3.4 mm travel of the Weightlessness may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation typical of modern gaming preferences. Conversely, the greater depth of the Venus switch might provide a more satisfying tactile experience for users who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, both switches serve distinct needs within the keyboard community, catering to varying preferences regarding travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 TTC Venus switch offers a unique profile characterized by low-pitched, muted tones that provide a subdued typing experience. Its nuanced sound is bass-heavy, contributing to a soft, thocky resonance that is both satisfying and discreet, making it ideal for quiet environments. This neutral and dampened sound further enhances the overall typing ambiance, allowing users to focus on their work without the distraction of excessive clatter. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch does not have specific sound characteristics documented, but given its balanced sound profile, one could expect a similarly pleasant auditory experience, though the details remain somewhat unknown.
As for feel, the TTC Venus switch excels with its buttery and frictionless typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes that glide effortlessly. The inclusion of a gummy texture adds a unique quality, reminiscent of a trampoline effect when bottoming out, which makes the overall typing experience both enjoyable and responsive. Mild characteristics ensure that its feel is approachable for a wide range of users, while polished finishes enhance smoothness and reduce friction. The specifics of the Weightlessness switch's tactile feel are less defined, but its subtle to moderate tactile feedback suggests a pleasant typing experience that can be enjoyable for many users, even if the exact nature of that feel is currently unspecified.
In summary, the TTC Venus linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch present distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Venus stands out with its meticulously crafted design that yields a rich auditory experience, coupled with an exceptionally smooth typing sensation. While the Weightlessness switch offers a balanced sound and a tactile profile, there is less clarity on its specific characteristics. However, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in their own ways, making either a viable option depending on personal preference. Users can expect a comparable satisfaction from both switches, especially if they prioritize smoothness and a pleasant auditory profile in their typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Venus linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth and frictionless experience, the Venus is an ideal choice, especially if you often engage in rapid typing or gaming. Its medium-light actuation force of 52 grams makes it accommodating for long typing sessions while its muted sound signature ensures that you won’t disturb those around you. This switch is perfect for individuals seeking a buttery and polished feel, akin to the sensation of sinking into soft, chewy textures. On the other hand, if you're someone who enjoys tactile feedback without overwhelming resistance and seeks a balanced auditory experience, the Gateron Weightlessness switch could be more to your liking. Its subtle to moderate tactile bump, although unspecified in actuation force, may provide just enough feedback to satisfy typists who enjoy feeling the actuation point without the noise that often accompanies more severe tactile switches. Overall, your decision will hinge on whether you value smoothness and sound dampening over tactile feedback and a more pronounced touch, guiding you towards the best switch for your keyboard experience.
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