TTC Flame Red vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Gold Pink. The Flame Red switch is best known for its stunning visuals, boasting a dazzling light diffuser that makes it ideal for backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, delivering a unique tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch stands out for its lightweight design, requiring only a 37g actuation force. These switches are perfect for those who prioritize a fast and effortless typing experience, making them suitable for both rapid typing and gaming. The Gold Pinks also offer a satisfying level of feedback, accompanied by a clacky sound. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to better understand which switch is the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and the TTC Gold Pink differ significantly in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being stiffer than nylon, produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Gold Pink's translucent polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those planning to use RGB lighting, adding aesthetic appeal to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Flame Red and the Gold Pink share the same nylon material. This commonality ensures that both switches elicit a deep and full sound when typing. Nylon, as a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, both switches provide a duller and rounder sound profile due to the nature of nylon as a housing material. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, as it influences the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials differ between the top and bottom of the switches, it is crucial to understand their individual impacts. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, contributes significantly to the deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the top housing holds more influence over the sound when releasing a key. The Flame Red's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Therefore, the housing materials of the Flame Red and Gold Pink split the qualities they bring to the overall sound profile, allowing users to choose the desired sound they prefer when typing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Flame Red has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, while the Gold Pink requires a lighter force of 37 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red is also slightly heavier with a force of 54 grams, whereas the Gold Pink requires 45 grams to fully press down. These differences indicate that the Flame Red switch offers a slightly stronger push feel compared to the Gold Pink. However, both switches fall within the lighter to medium-light force range, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. Therefore, individuals looking for similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces may find both switches to provide a comparable typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance traveled by both switches. Whether you choose the Flame Red or the Gold Pink, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance. Thus, there is no difference in the travel distance between these two switches as they both have a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
The Flame Red switch is best known for its stunning visuals, particularly its dazzling light diffuser that makes it perfect for backlit, RGB keyboards. When typing on the Flame Reds, users will experience a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. In terms of sound, the Flame Red switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for any user, whether beginner or advanced, and for use at home or work.
On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch is best known for its light actuation force of 37g, making it one of the lightest switches available. This switch is designed for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming. Additionally, the Gold Pink switch offers a satisfying level of feedback with its clacky sound. In terms of feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Gold Pink switch also falls under the mild category, offering approachable qualities in terms of sound and feel. It is also polished, resulting in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a sleek typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Flame Red switch offers a visually stunning option for those who prefer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. Meanwhile, the Gold Pink switch provides a light and lively typing experience with its light actuation force and satisfying clacky sound. Both switches have mild qualities, making them approachable and suitable for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. When it comes to sound, the Flame Red switch is neutral, while the Gold Pink switch's sound quality is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of feel and sound with these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize visual aesthetics and enjoy a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, then the Flame Red switches would be the ideal choice for you, especially if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you value a fast and effortless typing experience, with a light actuation force and a satisfying level of feedback, then the Gold Pink switches would be more suitable. These switches provide a light and lively typing experience, making them perfect for rapid typing or gaming. Both switches offer a mild typing experience and a polished feel, ensuring a sleek and comfortable typing sensation. Ultimately, consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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