TTC Flame Red vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The TTC Flame Red is a linear switch that offers a weighty smoothness and a satisfying clacky sound profile, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate audible feedback and enjoy a polished typing experience. Its stunning light diffuser enhances the visuals of any backlit or RGB keyboard, making it not just a functional choice, but an aesthetically pleasing one as well. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE presents a unique alternative with its hall effect technology, delivering a clean, low sound that many users find appealing. These switches work seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, which distinguishes them in the market for gamers and typists alike. While the Flame Red is ideal for those looking for a visually impressive and immersive typing experience, the Lavender HE caters to users who prioritize sound quality and compatibility with specific gaming setups. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Neo Lavender HE are identical, as both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This similarity in material results in comparable auditory and tactile experiences when typing on either switch. Nylon, known for its softer properties, effectively dampens sound, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This design choice promotes a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more pleasant typing experience that many users appreciate.
When considering the performance characteristics of each switch, it's prominent that the nylon construction creates largely similar effects. As both the Flame Red and the Neo Lavender HE feature nylon throughout, users can expect the same engaging tactile response and bottom-out sound. The material's capacity to absorb vibrations results in reduced noise, which is particularly advantageous for those who prefer quieter typing environments. Furthermore, since the sound absorption properties of nylon are consistent across both switches, the auditory feedback during key release will reflect this muted and smooth quality.
In cases where the top and bottom housings differ, the switch's overall sound and feel would show more variation based on the distinct characteristics of each material. However, since the Flame Red and Neo Lavender HE share identical nylon housings, the overall performance remains cohesive. Users can anticipate a familiar and satisfying typing sensation regardless of the switch choice. This uniformity assures that whether typing on the Flame Red or the Neo Lavender HE, they will enjoy similar sound profiles and tactile experiences, enhancing the overall usability and satisfaction with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, we find notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Flame Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it distinctly lighter overall. This weight difference suggests that users who prefer a softer touch and less exertion during prolonged typing sessions, such as at work or during extended gaming, might favor the Lavender HE switch. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when pressing keys may find the increased force of the Flame Red switch to their liking. Thus, while both switches offer a different typing experience, the Flame Red is the heavier option, while the Lavender HE is the lighter one.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Flame Red the longer travel option, offering a more pronounced depth that some users may find preferable for a tactile experience. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers or users seeking quicker actuation and more responsiveness. As shorter travel distances become increasingly popular for their speed, the Flame Red may feel too abrupt for those who appreciate a more significant keypress experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a deeper feel, the Flame Red is the better choice, whereas if you value a quicker response, the Neo Lavender HE could suit your preferences better.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch presents a moderate and neutral sound profile that appeals to a wide audience, making it suitable for both home and work environments. This balanced acoustic quality ensures that the typing experience is not overly disruptive while still offering a satisfying auditory feedback, which can enhance the overall typing experience. The Neo Lavender HE, however, offers a distinct advantage with its clean, low sound, particularly tailored for use with Wooting keyboards. This key quality creates an understated auditory atmosphere that can benefit those who prefer a quieter workspace. However, it’s important to note that sound can be influenced by various factors, such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which means the final auditory experience may vary based on individual preferences and setups.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch excels with its weighty smoothness, offering a typing experience that is both polished and mild. The polished nature ensures reduced friction during key presses, contributing to an overall smooth journey of the keys, while the milder feel makes it approachable for users of all experience levels. This balanced feel is a hallmark of a good linear switch, providing a gentle typing experience without extreme characteristics. On the other hand, the feel of the Neo Lavender HE remains less defined in this context, leaving some uncertainty regarding its tactile characteristics. This lack of information means that potential users might have to research further to fully understand the typing experience it offers.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is characterized by its visually appealing design, neutral sound profile, and smooth, mild feel, making it a versatile choice for many users. Its polished finish contributes to an overall pleasing experience, especially for those who favor a more traditional linear feel. Meanwhile, the Neo Lavender HE switch stands out with its unique low sound quality but lacks detailed information regarding its tactile feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that those who choose them will enjoy their unique benefits regardless of slight variances in characteristics. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize sound clarity or the refined tactile experience of a well-rounded switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch largely depends on your personal preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. If you desire a switch that strikes a balance between a smooth and slightly pronounced feel, coupled with a neutral sound profile that can fit seamlessly into both gaming and typing scenarios, the Flame Red is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams makes it ideal for long typing sessions without causing fatigue, while its dazzling light diffuser enhances the aesthetics of backlit keyboards. Conversely, if you are looking for a switch that offers a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Lavender HE may be more appealing. Its clean, low sound profile is tailored for those who seek a quieter typing experience, especially in shared spaces. The unique compatibility with Wooting keyboards also sets it apart for users who value innovative features in their gaming setup. Ultimately, your decision will come down to whether you prioritize aesthetic appeal and a balanced feel with the Flame Red, or the quiet efficiency and compatibility of the Lavender HE.
Mentioned in this article
