TTC Flame Red vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to cater to various preferences. Two popular choices include the TTC Flame Red and the TKC Kiwi switches, each offering unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Flame Red switches are renowned for their stunning light diffuser, making them the ideal choice for those seeking a backlit, RGB keyboard. Not only do they provide a weighty smoothness, but they also produce a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches are specifically designed to elevate your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. These tactile switches deliver a snappy sound profile, immersing you in the joy of typing. Additionally, they come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless experience right out of the box. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and the TKC Kiwi have different housing materials, which result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, UHWMPE offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. So, while the Flame Red provides a duller and rounder sound, the Kiwi delivers a sharper and more vibrant sound.
Similar to the top housing, the Flame Red and Kiwi also differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Flame Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. Meanwhile, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing may result in a distinct sound profile, potentially offering a brighter and more resonant bottom-out sound. Therefore, the bottom housing of each switch will play a significant role in the overall sound and feel while pressing down on the keys.
Considering the impact of the different housing materials, it is evident that the Flame Red and the Kiwi will provide contrasting typing experiences. The Flame Red's nylon housing, whether top or bottom, absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and more muffled typing sound. Conversely, the Kiwi's UHWMPE housing, be it top or bottom, delivers a brighter and more resonant sound when typing. It is important to note that the top housing influences the sound when the key is released, while the bottom housing mainly affects the sound and feel during a key press. Therefore, while both switches may offer a satisfying typing experience, the sound profiles and tactile feedback will differ due to their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Kiwi has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. These variances in force can greatly impact the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Flame Red would be a suitable choice, allowing for comfortable and extended typing sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier push of the Kiwi switch. It is worth mentioning that while their actuation forces and bottom out forces differ, they both fall within the medium range, providing a similar typing experience in terms of force, albeit with slightly distinct characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it becomes evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity guarantees a consistent tactile experience for users, regardless of the switch they choose. Therefore, there is no difference in terms of travel distance between the two switches, ensuring that both options will provide similar results.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
The sound profile of the Flame Red switches can be described as clacky, providing users with a weighty smoothness. This makes them suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether they are using the switches at home or work. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches have a low-pitched sound profile which gives them a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This provides a satisfyingly snappy and immersive typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switches offer a mild typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel. They have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Kiwi switches, on the other hand, provide a stepped feel with two stages of tactility. They are accented switches, offering a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Similar to the Flame Red, the Kiwi switches also have a polished finish, providing a sleek and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Flame Red switches are best known for their backlit visuals and weighty smoothness, with a clacky sound profile. They offer a mild typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches enhance the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong tactile bump. They have a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a stepped feel with an accentuated level of tactility. Both switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience due to their polished finish. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for newcomers and experienced users alike.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize the visual aspect of your keyboard and want a switch that is perfect for a backlit, RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Not only does it have a dazzling light diffuser, but it also offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile when typing. On the other hand, if you value a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, then the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is the way to go. These switches provide a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Sound-wise, the Flame Red offers a neutral profile suitable for any purpose, while the Kiwi provides a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. In terms of feel, the Flame Red offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the Kiwi provides a stepped and accented feel, along with a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and priorities when it comes to visuals, sound, and feel.
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