TTC Flame Red vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Kang White 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 KTT Kang White, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. Each switch offers its own unique qualities that make them appealing choices for keyboard enthusiasts. The Flame Red is best known for its stunning light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who crave a visually striking backlit, RGB keyboard setup. In terms of feel and sound, the Flame Reds offer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable tactile experience to every typing session. On the other hand, the Kang White switch stands out for its poppy linear feel and dazzling typing sound. Unlike the Flame Red, the Kang Whites possess a self-lubricating material that contributes to an unparalleled smoothness during typing sessions. They are categorized as low-pitched and neutral, providing a unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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 housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Kang White switches have distinct differences, leading to variations in sound and feel. The Flame Red switch features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to the softer nature of nylon, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Kang White switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, especially when combined with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon as the material. This choice brings consistency in terms of sound profile. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound output, thanks to its relatively softer nature and increased sound absorption compared to harder plastics. Therefore, both the Flame Red and Kang White switches offer similar sound experiences when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
However, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the differences in material between the Flame Red's nylon top housing and the Kang White's polycarbonate top housing will manifest while releasing a key, with the Flame Red providing a duller and rounder sound and the Kang White delivering a crisper and higher-pitched sound.
In summary, the nylon bottom housings of the Flame Red and Kang White switches offer a similar deep and full sound experience. However, the differences lie in their respective top housing materials. The Flame Red's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound, while the Kang White's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. These distinctions showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound profile of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the initial force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of sensitivity and responsiveness.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the TTC Flame Red has a force of 54 grams, whereas the KTT Kang White requires 58 grams to fully press down. This means that the Flame Red is lighter in terms of the force needed to fully press a key to its bottom position. This lighter force can be advantageous for users who prefer a lighter typing experience and wish to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue.
On the other hand, the KTT Kang White switch requires a slightly heavier force to fully press down, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. This heavier force can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and make the typing experience feel more robust.
In conclusion, both switches have the same actuation force, but differ in terms of the bottom out force. The Flame Red is lighter, making it ideal for users who value a lighter typing experience, while the Kang White is slightly heavier, offering a more substantial feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and similar experience in terms of the distance traveled when pressing down on a key. Whether it's typing or gaming, users can expect a smooth and tactile feel with both switches. With their equal travel distances, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and other factors such as actuation force and sound profile in choosing between the two switches.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 switches are considered to have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or whether you plan to use them at home or work, the Flame Red switches will provide a satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, the Kang White switches are described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that they have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound produced by the Kang White switches is dazzling and adds an enjoyable element to the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switches offer a mild typing experience. They provide a more gentle typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes the switches approachable to most users, as their qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Flame Red switches are polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no available information on the feel of the Kang White switches.
In conclusion, the Flame Red switches are known for their weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile. They are visually appealing with their dazzling light diffuser, making them the perfect choice for backlit RGB keyboards. In terms of sound, they have a neutral sound profile that suits most users and purposes. When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. While there is less information available about the Kang White switches, they are described as having a low-pitched sound and self-lubricating material for unparalleled smoothness. Overall, both switches offer desirable qualities, and depending on personal preference, you will achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with dazzling visuals and a weighty smoothness accompanied by a clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red would be the best choice for you. These switches are especially ideal for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you desire an exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch with an unparalleled smoothness when typing, the KTT Kang White would be the better option. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and mellow typing sound, the Kang White is the way to go. Ultimately, when it comes to feel, the Flame Red offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for visuals, sound, and feel.
Mentioned in this article
