TTC Flame Red vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Flame Red and the Jwick Ginger Milk are both linear switches that offer a unique typing experience. The Flame Red is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it perfect for those who enjoy a backlit, RGB keyboard. Not only does it provide a visually stunning experience, but it also offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches are soft and pastel, representing the typing experience with these switches. They have a silky smooth and approachable push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. While both switches fall under the neutral category, the Flame Red is categorized as mild and polished, whereas the Ginger Milk is described as buttery. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and Jwick Ginger Milk switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound. In contrast, the Ginger Milk utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
While the top housings of both switches differ, their nylon bottom housings are similar. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon, which offers the same deep and full sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition enables it to absorb more sound, creating a duller yet rounder sound experience. Thus, both the Flame Red and Ginger Milk switches share the advantage of nylon's housing material when it comes to the sound profile during typing.
When examining the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it is important to consider the split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for each component can have a distinct impact on the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, we can see some differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Ginger Milk has an actuation force of 50 grams, making the Ginger Milk slightly heavier in this aspect. In terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams of force, whereas the Ginger Milk requires 63.5 grams. This makes the Ginger Milk significantly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Flame Red. While the Flame Red falls under the category of medium-light force, the Ginger Milk can be considered as medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Flame Red could be a suitable option. The lighter actuation force of 45 grams allows for comfortable typing and extended periods of use without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Ginger Milk with its heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This provides a satisfying tactile feedback while typing.
Considering the weight aspect, the Flame Red can be considered lighter overall in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. This makes it a good choice for those seeking a lighter keyboard for work or prolonged gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Ginger Milk offers a heavier typing experience, suiting individuals who prefer a stronger push and a more substantial feel when typing.
Overall, while the Flame Red and Ginger Milk switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, they cater to individuals with different preferences. Whether one chooses a lighter switch like the Flame Red or a heavier switch like the Ginger Milk, it ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, it is clear that the Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Ginger Milk has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While both switches offer a traditional feel, with the Flame Red being slightly deeper, the difference in travel distance may not be significant to most users. Gamers, however, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ginger Milk for faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Flame Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, both the Flame Red and Ginger Milk switches are described as having a moderate sound profile. This means that they produce a sound that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making them suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switches are described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users as it falls in a safe and middle-ground zone. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches results in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches are described as providing a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. While the specific qualities of the Ginger Milk switches are not mentioned in detail, this description suggests a comfortable and enjoyable feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red and Jwick Ginger Milk switches have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Flame Red switches offer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, along with a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches provide a silky smooth push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile, accompanied by a buttery typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, and depending on your personal preferences, you can achieve similar results with either choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you are someone who values visual aesthetics and wants a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Red is the clear choice. Its dazzling light diffuser adds a visually stunning element to your keyboard setup. Additionally, the Flame Red provides a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, giving it a satisfying typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and more pastel typing experience, the Ginger Milk is the ideal choice. The Ginger Milk offers a silky smooth and approachable push feel, accompanied by a muted and snappy sound profile. These switches provide a buttery and uniform typing sensation.
Both switches have a neutral sound profile and actuation force requirement, making them suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. In terms of feel, the Flame Red offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the Ginger Milk provides a buttery and seamless keystroke.
In the end, your decision should be based on your individual preferences regarding visuals, sound, and feel. Consider factors such as whether you prioritize backlit keyboards, the smoothness and clackiness of the typing experience, and the overall visual aesthetics. By carefully evaluating your needs, you will be able to make an informed decision between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch.