TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Glory Red offer two distinctive experiences, each catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Flame Red stands out not only for its performance but also for its stunning visuals, featuring a captivating light diffuser that enhances the look of any RGB keyboard. With a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, these switches provide a tactile yet polished feel, making them a great option for those who prioritize aesthetics and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red delivers a lighter touch, offering a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance that promotes an enjoyable typing experience. While the Flame Red may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced sound and a unique visual flair, the Glory Red caters to those who prefer speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and Gateron Glory Red switches share a common factor in their housing materials, as both feature nylon for the top and bottom housings. This choice of material is pivotal in determining the overall acoustic profile and tactile experience of the switches. Nylon is lauded for its relatively softer consistency compared to harder plastics, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Consequently, both the Flame Red and Glory Red switches will produce similar auditory experiences, characterized by a duller and rounder sound, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. This commonality suggests that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches, resulting in satisfying acoustics regardless of their choice.
Both switches exhibit the same construction material for their top and bottom housings, leading to a unified sound profile that's influenced by the softer nature of nylon. With this similarity, the acoustic qualities will arise from the sustainment of sound as it travels within the switch, as well as how the different housings contribute to the auditory feedback during both key presses and releases. Specifically, while the bottom housing outcomes affect the bottom-out sound and feel due to the additional impact associated with key presses, the top housing influences the sound perceived upon releasing a key. Thus, while the Flame Red and Glory Red may differ in branding, the nylon construction allows users to enjoy compatible sensory feedback across both switches.
Despite their shared material composition, the nuanced effects of each housing may result in slight variances in user experience. For instance, although the fundamental sound profiles are similar, individual manufacturers may implement their design tolerances or adjustments, leading to unique subtleties in feel and sound. As such, while the material itself guarantees that both switches deliver a rounded acoustic input, the potential variation in their individual assembly may distinguish the tactile response from each switch. Ultimately, those seeking consistent acoustic properties will be well-satisfied with both the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Glory Red switches, appreciating the common nylon foundation while recognizing that minor disparities could shape their specific preferences.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch exhibit a notable similarity in their actuation force, both requiring 45 grams of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This comparable actuation force indicates that users will experience a similar ease of key activation with either switch, making both options suitable for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming marathons. However, the bottom out forces differ; the Flame Red switch has a bottom out force of 54 grams, while the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unknown. This suggests that while both switches allow for light actuation, the Flame Red’s slightly heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer that tactile feedback when bottoming out. Ultimately, if the Gateron Glory Red’s bottom out force were known, it could potentially influence which switch feels lighter or heavier overall; for now, the Flame Red is categorized as the heavier option due to its defined bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, a clear difference emerges. The Flame Red switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Glory Red measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Glory Red the shorter option, which can benefit gamers looking for quicker response times during fast-paced gameplay. In contrast, the Flame Red's 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, which can enhance typing comfort and feedback. Therefore, if you value responsiveness, the Glory Red would be the better choice, while the Flame Red may appeal more to users who appreciate a more pronounced switch depth.
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 Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 Flame Red linear switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile, making it versatile enough for various environments, from home to office use. Its moderate sound output tends to appeal to users who appreciate a consistent typing experience without being overly loud or disruptive. The Gateron Glory Red, while not explicitly described in terms of sound, can be expected to provide a similarly unobtrusive auditory feedback during use. However, keep in mind that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the keyboard build and selected keycaps, meaning that adjustments in either could lead to different results for both switches.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red stands out with its mild characteristics that create a gentle typing experience, catering to a wide range of users from beginners to enthusiasts. This switch also enjoys a polished quality, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction, which contributes to a refined tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red offers a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance; however, since specific descriptors are lacking, it’s hard to pinpoint how its feel compares directly to that of the Flame Red. Nevertheless, both switches are geared towards providing an enjoyable typing experience, even if the specifics may differ.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Glory Red linear switches are suited for users seeking a smooth and pleasant typing experience, with the Flame Red being particularly notable for its neutral sound profile and polished feel. While the specifics of the Glory Red's sound and feel are not clearly outlined, it can be anticipated that they provide similar qualities, given their linear nature. Ultimately, both switches will yield satisfying results, making either a reliable choice for anyone venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Glory Red linear switches, your choice should depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you gravitate towards aesthetics and want a switch that not only feels good but also enhances your backlit or RGB keyboard setup, the Flame Red is your best bet. With its medium-light actuation force of 54 grams, it offers a satisfying weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile that can be appealing for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a smooth keystroke and enjoyable travel distance, the Gateron Glory Red may be more suitable, especially if you prioritize a seamless typing feel. While the specifics regarding the Glory Red's actuation force remain unknown, it generally provides a lighter touch compared to the Flame Red. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value aesthetics and sound in your setup or seek a more straightforward, light typing experience.
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