TTC Venus vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Venus and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference and typing style play crucial roles, and two notable options in the linear category are the TTC Venus and TTC Yunhai switches. The TTC Venus is celebrated for its innovative internal design, which combines a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy "Q-texture" that evokes the delightful sensation of chewing into mochi or tapioca pearls. With a light actuation force and a muted sound signature, the Venus is ideal for those seeking a swift and subtle typing experience that won't disturb others nearby. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches offer a typing experience characterized by a deep, rounded sound profile and similarly light actuation, making them perfect for typists who favor a gentle, effortless feedback. While both switches cater to users looking for lightweight actuation and linear smoothness, their unique auditory and tactile experiences set them apart. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Venus and the TTC Yunhai showcase different materials in their switch housings, leading to unique auditory experiences and tactile responses. The Venus employs a POM top housing, known for its ability to produce a pleasing sound profile that leans toward deeper tones and moderate muting. In contrast, the Yunhai's top housing is made from nylon, a traditional material that similarly delivers a deeper and fuller sound but differs in its absorption qualities. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a rounder sound profile compared to the distinct sound characteristics of POM. When typing on each switch, users can expect variations in audio feedback based on these contrasting top housing materials, even as both emphasize deeper tones.
Examining the bottom housings, the TTC Venus uses polycarbonate, whereas the TTC Yunhai is constructed from nylon. Polycarbonate is recognized for imparting a sharper and crisper sound, owing to its stiffer composition, which allows sound waves to resonate more clearly. This allows the Venus to exhibit a more defined auditory experience during key release, enhancing the switch's overall clarity. On the other hand, with the Yunhai's nylon bottom housing, the sound is again deeper and fuller, maintaining continuity with its softer plastic characteristics. Hence, while both switches utilize differing materials in their lower housings, the Venus is inclined to produce a more resonant sound, while the Yunhai tends to promote a more muted auditory experience.
In terms of performance, the interaction between the top and bottom housings significantly influences the overall typing experience. While the Venus's POM top and polycarbonate bottom create a combination of full-bodied tones upon pressing the switch and a brighter sound as it is released, the Yunhai presents a cohesive experience of deeper, rounder sounds for both the key press and release. Consequently, the differences in housing materials result in distinct auditory profiles while maintaining a similar emphasis on deeper tones. Ultimately, whether using the Venus or the Yunhai, users can expect switches that prioritize a muted yet satisfying typing experience, with the specific material interactions shaping their individual auditory signatures.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Venus and TTC Yunhai linear switches, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Venus features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Yunhai has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This means that users who favor a lighter typing experience, such as those engaged in prolonged typing sessions or gaming, might gravitate toward the Yunhai for ease of use. Conversely, the Venus provides a slightly heavier tactile feedback, which some typists may prefer for a more substantial keystroke feel. Overall, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces reflects distinct user preferences, with the Yunhai being the lighter switch and the Venus being the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Venus and the TTC Yunhai linear switches, we find that the Venus has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Yunhai measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Venus provides a more pronounced depth when pressing the switch, which some users may prefer for a satisfying tactile feel. In contrast, the shorter travel of the Yunhai may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times. In this case, if you prioritize a more responsive experience, the Yunhai would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial bottom-out feel might gravitate towards the Venus. Overall, while both switches offer relatively short travel distances that are in line with modern preferences, the Venus is the longer option, making it more suitable for users looking for a deeper tactile experience.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 is characterized by a low-pitched and muted sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a softer, quieter typing experience. Its subdued characteristics lend it a more subtle sound signature that minimizes noise, perfect for shared or quiet environments. The Venus strikes a balance that results in a thocky resonance when pressed, providing a satisfying depth without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch lacks specific sound descriptors, which makes it difficult to compare directly, but the existing description suggests that it produces a gentle, rounded sound profile that can add to its appeal for typists favoring softer sound experiences.
In terms of feel, the TTC Venus switch offers a buttery and frictionless typing experience, allowing for smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance. The unique internal design adds to its springy feel, resembling the sensation of pressing into chewy mochi or tapioca, which enhances the overall typing experience without the cumbersome resistance often found in other switches. It's a mild switch that caters to a wide range of typists due to its approachable characteristics. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switch similarly emphasizes a light actuation force, making it feel gentle and effortless, but it lacks detailed descriptions of its tactile qualities. This presents a challenge in determining its comparative smoothness or any unique textures in feel, leaving that aspect largely unknown.
Overall, while the TTC Venus switch is notable for its muted sound and smooth, enjoyable feel, the TTC Yunhai switch promises a light actuation force and gentle typing experience, though further details are limited. Both switches cater to those preferring subtle sound profiles and a relaxed typing experience, suggesting that choosing either could yield a similar typing satisfaction for those looking for less auditory distraction and more focused, effortless keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Venus and the TTC Yunhai linear switches should hinge on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a switch that balances a smooth, frictionless glide with a slightly firmer actuation, the Venus, with its 52-gram bottom-out force, is an excellent choice. It offers a muted, low-pitched sound profile that is particularly suited for quieter environments, making it ideal for workspaces or shared living situations. Moreover, the unique "Q-texture" feel provides a distinctive and enjoyable typing experience that many find reminiscent of popping chewy mochi. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter touch with effortless keystrokes, the Yunhai's 50-gram bottom-out force might be more appealing. Its deep, rounded sound profile complements a gentle touch, making it perfect for extended typing sessions where comfort and minimal resistance are key. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize the Venus's firmer feedback and subdued acoustics or the Yunhai's lighter, effortless actuation and rounded sound experience.
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