TTC Flame Red vs. HMX Gravel

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and HMX Gravel offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red is not only recognized for its impressive performance but also for its stunning visual appeal, featuring a dazzling light diffuser that makes it an ideal choice for those with backlit or RGB keyboards. The switch provides a weighty smoothness paired with a clacky sound profile, creating a delightful tactile experience that enthusiasts crave. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel shines in its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, with a medium-light actuation force that lends itself to a responsive and effortless typing experience. This makes the Gravel a great option for users who prioritize subtlety and ease during long typing sessions. While both switches offer a linear feel, their varying attributes suggest that each can enhance your typing experience in unique ways. 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

HMX Gravel Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Gravel, a clear distinction emerges between their top housings. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of this softer material. Nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a rounder and less sharp auditory experience, which can be appealing for those who prefer a more subdued keypress sound. In contrast, the HMX Gravel boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for producing a crisper and more defined sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for greater resonance, resulting in a sharper auditory experience, particularly appealing for users who enjoy a more lively typing sound.

On the other hand, both the Flame Red and HMX Gravel utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material means that both switches deliver a similar deeper and fuller sound profile from the bottom of the switch, aligning their performance characteristics when pressed. The nylon bottom housing's sound absorption qualities ensure that the bottom-out experience on both switches feels similar, devoid of the sharper tones that the polycarbonate top housing of the Gravel might otherwise impart. This commonality in the bottom housing allows users to expect a harmonious typing feel regardless of the distinct auditory presentations offered by the two different top housings.

Ultimately, the combination of differing top housings and similar bottom housings in the Flame Red and Gravel creates a nuanced typing experience. While the Flame Red's nylon top results in a rounded and mellow sound, the Gravel's polycarbonate top may induce a sharper auditory profile. However, the immersive qualities imparted by the nylon bottoms ensure a consistent and satisfying feel when bottoming out either switch. Consequently, users can achieve a rich typing experience that merges the unique soundscapes of the polycarbonate and nylon top housings while grounding their experience in the familiar depth provided by the nylon bottoms.

Weight

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This means users of both switches will experience a comparable initial tactile experience when typing or gaming. However, the bottom out forces differ; the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, while the Gravel is lighter at 50 grams. This indicates that while the initial actuation feels the same, the Flame Red requires slightly more force to fully bottom out, making it feel heavier overall. Thus, for users seeking a lighter typing experience, the HMX Gravel is the preferable option, as it combines a lighter bottom out force with the same actuation force. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the TTC Flame Red due to its heavier bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, the Flame Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gravel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Flame Red will provide deeper key presses, appealing to users who prefer a traditional feel with more substantial depth. On the other hand, the Gravel's 3.5 mm travel distance caters to those who favor quicker response times, making it advantageous for gamers seeking a snappier experience. Therefore, for those who appreciate a more responsive switch, the HMX Gravel is the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, while the TTC Flame Red may be more suitable for users who enjoy a richer tactile sensation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, the Flame Red is characterized as having a neutral sound profile that balances well for various environments, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced users. Its moderate actuation force requirement complements the overall typing experience, which can be advantageous in multiple settings, such as home or office. In contrast, information regarding the sound profile of the HMX Gravel is unavailable, leaving it unclear how it performs in that regard. It’s worth noting, however, that sound can be influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristics provide a gentle yet effective response during typing, making it accessible for a broad range of users. Additionally, its polished nature ensures a smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing user comfort. On the other hand, details about the feel of the HMX Gravel switch are likewise not specified, leaving a gap where comparisons could be drawn.

In summary, both the TTC Flame Red and HMX Gravel switches cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, though they exhibit distinct qualities. The Flame Red is particularly noted for its neutral sound profile and refined feel, making it a versatile option. While the sound and feel attributes of the Gravel switch remain unknown, both switches likely aim to deliver smooth and enjoyable typing experiences. Users can expect similar outcomes in functionality, although the unique traits found in the Flame Red might sway individuals towards that option if sound and feel are decisive factors for them.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between TTC Flame Red and HMX Gravel linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you desire. If you appreciate a more robust and slightly heavier feel with a light clack, the Flame Red, with its 54 grams bottom-out force, will likely suit you well, especially if you're using a backlit or RGB keyboard due to its stunning light diffuser. Its neutral sound profile and polished feel create a versatile typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and work environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother touch, the HMX Gravel switch, with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, offers an effortlessly responsive typing experience. It stands out for its exceptional smoothness, making it a fantastic choice for those who prioritize a gentle and refined typing feel. Consider what matters most to you in your keyboard experience—whether it’s the aesthetic enhancement of lights and sounds, or the sheer smoothness and responsiveness—and choose accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more