TTC Flame Red vs. Huano Grape Orange

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often consider factors such as feel, sound, and aesthetics. The TTC Flame Red linear switch stands out not only for its performance but also for its stunning visual appeal, featuring a dazzling light diffuser that enhances any backlit RGB keyboard setup. Users appreciate its smoothness and noticeable clacky sound profile, which adds a unique auditory character to each keystroke. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange switch is celebrated for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, offering a remarkably effortless typing experience that is particularly advantageous for those who spend long hours typing. This makes the Grape Orange an excellent choice for productivity-focused users looking for minimal finger fatigue without compromising responsiveness. Both switches provide distinct benefits, with the Flame Red emphasizing aesthetics and sound, while the Grape Orange prioritizes comfort and ease of use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Huano Grape Orange switches, it is evident that there are key differences in their top housings. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. The Grape Orange, contrastingly, incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate serves to enhance clarity and resonance, making it ideal for users who prefer a brighter auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate not only affects sound but also lends itself well to RGB lighting applications, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the switch.

The bottom housings of the Flame Red and Grape Orange switches show an interesting point of convergence, as both utilize nylon. This shared material in the bottom housing means that both switches will have similar sound characteristics when bottoming out, as nylon's softer composition leads to a deeper and more rounded sound profile. This creates a uniformity in the tactile feedback and auditory experience when the keystroke is fully pressed, allowing for a consistent feeling of comfort in both switches during use.

However, the divergences between the two switches in their top housings highlight a unique interplay in the overall sound profile when typing. Whereas the Flame Red's nylon top emphasizes a warmer, more subdued auditory feedback upon releasing a key, the Grape Orange’s polycarbonate top contributes a more vibrant and resonant sound. Consequently, despite both switches sharing the same nylon material in their bottom housings, the contrasting top housings create distinctly different experiences when it comes to typing dynamics and sound signatures. Users may gravitate toward one switch or the other based on their preferences for sound clarity versus warm depth, illustrating the nuanced effects of housing materials on keyboard performance.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch to the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Grape Orange has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Grape Orange is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially beneficial for lengthy work sessions or extended gaming. On the other hand, the slightly heavier Flame Red switch could provide a more substantial tactile experience for those who prefer a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, the choice hinges on personal preference for weight and feedback during use.

Travel distance

The TTC Flame Red linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Grape Orange linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Flame Red switch offers a more traditional experience with its longer travel, catering to those who appreciate a hearty depth in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Grape Orange, with its shorter 3.6 mm distance, may appeal to gamers and users seeking faster response times, creating a more immediate feedback during use. While both switches operate effectively within their design purposes, they suit differing preferences: if you prefer a deeper, more substantial keystroke feel, the Flame Red is the superior choice, but if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Grape Orange will deliver quicker activation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch exhibits a clacky sound profile, providing a pleasant auditory feedback that is engaging without being overly loud or disruptive, making it suitable for both office and home environments. The Flame Red’s neutral sound characteristic means it strikes a balance that can appeal to users of all skill levels. On the other hand, the sound profile for the Huano Grape Orange is not specified, leaving the auditory experience of this switch less defined. However, it's essential to note that sound can also vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material, so this may influence the overall experience when using the Grape Orange switches.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Flame Red switches offer a weighty smoothness characterized by a mild and polished tactile response. This combination results in a gentle typing experience, making them approachable for most users while also ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel due to either the materials used or factory lubing. Conversely, the Grape Orange linear switch is noted for its exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, with a very low actuation force of 40g, which is perfect for long typing sessions. This distinct light feel distinguishes the Grape Orange from the Flame Red, appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch when typing.

Overall, while both switches serve different preferences, they each promise an engaging typing experience but cater to subtly different needs. The TTC Flame Red excels in aesthetic appeal and a balanced sound that works well in varied environments, while the Huano Grape Orange is designed for users who prioritize a lightweight touch. Depending on your typing style, whether you lean towards a more tactile yet smooth experience or a feather-light touch, both switches provide valuable options.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Flame Red and the Huano Grape Orange switches, it's important to consider your unique typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a smooth and slightly weighty typing experience, enhanced by a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red is an excellent choice, particularly if you have a backlit or RGB keyboard, as its stunning light diffuser will enhance your aesthetic setup. This switch's medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams makes it suitable for both home and work environments, allowing for diverse applications from casual typing to gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter and ultra-responsive feel, particularly for extended typing sessions, the Grape Orange switch is designed for you. Its 50 grams bottom out force, combined with its effortlessly light actuation, provides a breezier and more enjoyable typing experience. In summary, you should choose the Flame Red if you appreciate a polished typing experience and want to wow with visuals, whereas the Grape Orange is perfect for those seeking a less strenuous, quick-trigger typing feel. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you plan to use your keyboard and what typing sensations you find most appealing.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more