TTC Flame Red vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and TTC Gold Red Pro both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red stands out with its dazzling light diffuser, making it the go-to choice for those seeking a visually stunning backlit or RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, offering a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro showcases versatility with its easy press and neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. Both switches have their strengths, with the Flame Red leaning towards aesthetics and tactile feedback, while the Gold Red Pro focuses on adaptability and comfort. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Gold Red Pro, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The Flame Red uses a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound of a switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Flame Red and Gold Red Pro utilize nylon material. This means that both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics. While the top housing of a switch may have a more significant impact on the sound profile when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Therefore, despite the difference in top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistency in the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials in the Flame Red and Gold Red Pro switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. The Flame Red provides a dulled and rounder sound profile with its nylon housing, while the Gold Red Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. Whether one prefers a softer or stiffer plastic for their switch housing will determine which option is more suitable. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate can be advantageous for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup, making the Gold Red Pro a more visually appealing choice in that regard.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Red Pro is lighter in actuation force, requiring only 43 grams compared to the Flame Red's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Flame Red is heavier at 54 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a medium-light actuation force, making typing easier for prolonged periods of time. The difference lies in the bottom out force, with the Flame Red offering a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gold Red Pro, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Flame Red for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Flame Red offering a slightly longer travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Gold Red Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more satisfying key press may opt for the Flame Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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, the Flame Red linear switch is known for a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience that is not too loud or too soft. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, as both switches offer different sound profiles that could enhance the typing experience based on individual taste.
Moving on to the feel, the Flame Red switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gold Red Pro switch also boasts a polished and mild feel, along with a silky smoothness that minimizes resistance when typing. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground, catering to a wide range of users with varying preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch each possess unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Flame Red switch offers a neutral sound and mild feel with a weighty smoothness, the Gold Red Pro switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound experience along with a silky smooth and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their specific needs and enhances their overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a visually stunning switch with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the Flame Red would be a great choice, especially if you have a backlit RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you prioritize versatility and adaptability in your typing experience, the Gold Red Pro with its neutral sound signature and ease of press may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider how each aligns with your specific needs before making a decision.
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