TTC Flame Red vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Keygeek Keylin can significantly impact your typing experience. The Flame Red switches stand out not only for their performance but also for their stunning visual appeal, featuring a dazzling light diffuser that enhances the aesthetics of any backlit or RGB keyboard. Users often enjoy a weighty smoothness accompanied by a distinct clacky sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback along with a polished typing feel. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin switches are crafted with new molds specifically designed to provide a premium tactile experience. They boast rich acoustics and smooth action, appealing to users who prefer a seamless and quiet typing experience without sacrificing quality. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, making them ideal for various types of users. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and the Keygeek Keylin both utilize nylon as the primary material for their switch housings, which represents a significant similarity in their design choices. In both cases, the nylon top and bottom housings contribute to a unique acoustic profile that enhances the typing experience. Nylon is renowned for its softer texture compared to harder plastics, and this quality allows it to absorb sound more effectively. As a result, users of both switches can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing, which is paramount for those who prioritize auditory feedback in their mechanical keyboard experience. This fundamental similarity in materials suggests that users will likely achieve comparable acoustic results from both switches.
While the Flame Red and Keylin share the same material for their top and bottom housings, this consistency means that the overall sound dynamics will reflect similar characteristics based on the nylon’s acoustic properties. The duller and rounder sound profile resulting from the nylon housing will be evident in both switch models, making the typing experience smoother and more satisfying. Whether pressing down on the keys or releasing them, the impact of nylon ensures that the sound remains cohesive, with both switches providing an enjoyable auditory experience. Thus, users can expect similarly pleasing results, regardless of which switch they choose, as both take advantage of the sound-dampening qualities of nylon.
An important factor to consider, however, is that the acoustics of each switch will not only be influenced by the material but also by the construction and design of other components, such as the spring and stem. If the Flame Red and Keylin differ in these areas, the typing feel and sound delivery might still exhibit variances despite the shared nylon housing. For instance, while both switches will likely generate a robust sound profile due to the nylon construction, the bottom-out feel and the sound produced upon releasing the key could vary, depending on the specifics of the switch mechanism and the force used in their operation. Therefore, while similarities in materials lead to shared characteristics, the individual design elements will contribute to a distinctive typing experience in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can greatly impact the typing experience. The TTC Flame Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is classified as light. As a result, the Keylin switch is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer to type for extended periods, such as during prolonged work or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Flame Red offers a slightly heavier push, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, while both switches provide a distinct actuation and bottom out experience, the Keylin's lower force requirements lend themselves to a smoother and lighter typing experience compared to the Flame Red's medium-light profile.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the Flame Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Keylin has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Flame Red provides a more traditional feel and a greater depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the Keylin’s shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, making it a potentially better choice for gamers who prioritize rapid response times. Thus, while the Flame Red is the longer switch, providing a deeper feel, the Keylin's shorter distance caters to those seeking speed.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 TTC Flame Red linear switch presents a neutral acoustic profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force and a balanced sound that is suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. This balanced audio signature makes it accessible and comfortable for both beginners and seasoned users alike. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Keygeek Keylin switch remains unknown, which means it may offer a distinct acoustic experience that is not yet defined or available for comparison, thus potentially presenting a variable experience depending on the usage scenario.
When considering feel, the Flame Red switch combines a mild touch with a polished finish, providing a gentle typing experience that avoids sharp or overly pronounced characteristics. This thoughtful design results in a smooth and refined keystroke, minimizing friction and ensuring a comfortable typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Conversely, the tactile sensation of the Keylin switch is not specified, indicating a potential gap in understanding how it might feel in comparison to the Flame Red’s refined qualities. Without this information, one cannot make an assessment of its feel.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Flame Red and Keygeek Keylin linear switches promise different benefits to the user, the Flame Red offers established characteristics in terms of sound and feel that make it appealing for those who require a reliable and pleasant typing experience. Its neutral sound and polished smoothness cater to a broad audience, while the unknown aspects of the Keylin switch invite curiosity but leave a gap in direct comparison. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will hinge on personal preference and priorities, particularly regarding how one values sound and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and the context in which you use your keyboard. If you're seeking a switch that offers a medium-light feel with a vibrant visual appeal, particularly if you enjoy backlit or RGB lighting, the Flame Red switches are an excellent choice. Their 54-gram bottom out force provides a weighty smoothness, making typing enjoyable, while their neutral sound profile allows them to fit seamlessly into most environments, whether at work or home. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a softer bottom out force of 48 grams and you value the benefits of a premium typing experience, the Keylin switches are worth considering. With their focus on exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, they are particularly suited for those who prioritize the quality of the typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style and whether you lean more towards aesthetics and a balanced feel or towards a premium tactile experience.
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