TTC Flame Red vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Laurel, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and characteristics. The Flame Red is renowned for its stunning light diffuser, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a satisfying weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, creating a tactile experience like no other. On the other hand, we have the KTT Laurel, a medium-light linear switch that strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel offers a unique typing experience that is both comfortable and highly responsive. Additionally, it boasts a subtly low-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of sophistication to every keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Laurel switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Flame Red utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Laurel features a POM top and bottom housing, offering an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound produced by POM housings tends to be deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Flame Red and Laurel switches are different, they share similarities in how they affect the overall sound of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Since the Flame Red and Laurel have different bottom housings, the resulting bottom-out sound will vary between the two switches. Similarly, when you release a key, the sound profile will be influenced by the top housing. While the Flame Red's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound upon key release, the POM top housing of the Laurel generates a relatively more muted sound.
In summary, the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and KTT Laurel switches provide distinct sound characteristics. The Flame Red's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. On the other hand, the POM housing of the Laurel creates a unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. While the differences in top and bottom housings split the qualities between the two switches, both housings contribute to the overall experience by influencing the sound profile during key press and release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, it is evident that the Flame Red requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Laurel's 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red also requires a bit more force with 54 grams compared to the Laurel's 50 grams. Despite these slight differences, both switches fall within the lighter to medium-light range. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Laurel more suitable, as its actuation and bottom out forces are slightly lower. On the other hand, the Flame Red may appeal to individuals who prefer a bit more resistance and a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, while there are slight variations in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches, they offer similar results and would be suitable for individuals seeking a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have differing travel distances. The Flame Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Laurel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while a travel distance of 3.5 mm is categorized as more shallow. Gamers often opt for shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making it a preferred choice for those seeking high responsiveness. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on the keys may lean towards the switch with the longer travel distance. It is essential to consider personal preference and the desired typing experience when selecting 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 Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 Flame Red and the Laurel switches have distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness when typing, accompanied by a clacky sound profile. This gives a satisfying tactile experience for users who prefer a slightly heavier feel and a moderate sound level. On the other hand, the Laurel switch provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile that offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This can be appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, providing a gentle typing sensation without any pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Flame Red switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. This can be attributed to the longer or dual-staged springs used in the switch, which adds liveliness to the typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Flame Red and Laurel switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red switch provides a weighty smoothness, clacky sound profile, and a mild, polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience. Depending on the user's preferences, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as personal taste, keyboard choice, and keycap selection when selecting the most suitable switch. Overall, users can expect high-quality performance from both the Flame Red and Laurel switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a visually stunning option for your backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Red switches would be your best choice. These switches offer a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize responsiveness and comfort, the Laurel switches are the way to go. With their full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, these switches strike the perfect balance between the two. Additionally, the Laurel switches have a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which adds a touch of mellow tone to your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Flame Red and Laurel switches will depend on your personal preferences and priorities, whether it be aesthetics, sound, or feel.
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