TTC Flame Red vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and HMX Lotus both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red stands out for its stunning visual appeal with a dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prioritize aesthetics, especially in backlit or RGB keyboards. The weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile of the Flame Red also provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, creating a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. While the Lotus switches may lack the visual flair of the Flame Red, they make up for it with their delightful typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Lotus are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deep and full sound profile. The nylon top housing of both switches absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a rounder and duller sound when typing. This material choice impacts the overall typing experience by enhancing the auditory feedback and creating a unique sound signature for each switch.
While both switches share the same nylon top housing material, where they differ is in their bottom housing composition. The Flame Red's nylon bottom housing, like its top housing, contributes to the switch's sound profile by absorbing sound and creating a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus's nylon bottom housing also plays a crucial role in the switch's overall sound and feel, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This subtle difference in the bottom housing material can result in varying tactile feedback and sound levels between the two switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Lotus showcase the importance of material selection in creating a unique typing experience. While both switches utilize nylon for their top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials highlight how the composition of each component can influence the sound and tactile feedback of the switch. By understanding the role of each housing material, keyboard enthusiasts can appreciate the nuances in typing experience that these switches offer, whether it be a deeper and fuller sound profile or a unique bottom-out feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch are quite similar in terms of actuation force, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Flame Red is slightly heavier at 54 grams compared to the Lotus at 50 grams. The Flame Red switch falls into the medium-light category of switches, while the Lotus is considered light. This means that the Flame Red may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, whereas the Lotus offers a lighter typing feel for longer periods of typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Flame Red offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Lotus provides a shallower typing experience. Gamers may prefer the Lotus for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Flame Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and responsiveness.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 the sound of the Flame Red and Lotus switches, the Flame Red is known for its neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Lotus switches offer a bright and resonant sound that adds a delightful bounce to every keystroke. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Flame Red switch offers a mild typing experience with a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. Additionally, these switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Lotus switches have a medium weight of 50g bottom out, giving them a super bouncy feeling that will make typing a joyous experience. However, specific details on the feel of the Lotus switches are not provided.
Overall, both the Flame Red and Lotus switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red switches are best known for their backlit light diffuser, weighty smoothness, and clacky sound profile. In comparison, the Lotus switches stand out with their medium weight, bright and resonant sound, and bouncy typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either of these switches, although the Lotus switches may provide a more lively and energetic feel compared to the Flame Red switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a dazzling light diffuser for a vibrant RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke, the HMX Lotus linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize the visual aesthetics and weighty smoothness of the Flame Red or the bright, resonant sound and bouncy feel of the Lotus. Consider your typing experience and sound preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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