TTC Flame Red vs. Gazzew LT

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available to cater to your individual preferences. Two popular linear switches that offer unique qualities are the TTC Flame Red and the Gazzew LT. The Flame Red switches are renowned for their stunning visuals, particularly their dazzling light diffuser, making them an excellent choice for those who desire a backlit or RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Reds delivers a satisfying weightiness accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches captivate users with their alluring lilac hue and offer an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness with every keystroke. Furthermore, the LTs provide a seamless glide, enhancing the overall typing experience. Although these generalities give a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, delving deeper will help you truly determine which switch is best suited to your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Gazzew LT Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Gazzew LT exhibit many similarities when it comes to their top and bottom housings. Both the Flame Red and the LT utilize a softer plastic material, whether it's nylon or the Gazzew blend. This softness contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. By absorbing more sound than harder plastics, they both create a duller and rounder sound, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience. Therefore, despite having different proprietary blends, the top and bottom housings of both switches share similar qualities and will provide comparable results.

However, it's worth noting that the Gazzew LT's proprietary blend is sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," indicating its unique characteristics. This specific plastic blend enhances the richness and depth of the sound profile, potentially imparting a distinct quality to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Flame Red's nylon housing, being a classic material, may have a more standardized sound profile that is well-loved by many typists. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in determining which sound profile is more desirable.

In terms of ergonomics, the differences between the top and bottom housings become more pronounced. The bottom housing, be it nylon or the Gazzew blend, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. When a key is fully pressed down, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt, providing tactile feedback and absorbing the impact of the keystroke. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. The material and design of the top housing determine how smoothly a key springs back up and the resulting sound it produces. Therefore, while both switches share similar sound profiles, the individual characteristics of their top and bottom housings may affect the overall typing experience in different ways.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, there are notable differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red switch exhibits a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams. On the other hand, the specific actuation force of the LT switch is unavailable, making a direct comparison difficult. However, it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy force.

In terms of weight, the Flame Red switch is lighter compared to the LT switch. This lighter weight can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a keyboard that allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue. It is especially useful for those who use their keyboards extensively in work or gaming scenarios. On the contrary, the LT switch offers a heavier force, providing a more substantial typing experience for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel.

Despite the difference in actuation force values, it is important to note that both switches belong to the linear switch category. Therefore, although the specific actuation force of the LT switch is unknown, it can be expected to deliver comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, the difference in bottom out force indicates that the LT switch will require a slightly firmer pressing down compared to the Flame Red switch.

In summary, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a medium-light actuation force and a bottom out force that is slightly lighter than the Gazzew LT linear switch's medium-heavy force. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the preference of the user, with the Flame Red switch catering to those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the LT switch provides a heavier and more substantial typing feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is evident that the Flame Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the LT has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Flame Red falls into the more traditional range of travel distances at 4.0 mm, while the LT offers a more shallow travel distance at 3.2 mm. These variations in travel distance cater to different preferences and use cases. Gamers, for instance, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. In such cases, the LT switch with its shorter travel distance would be the preferred option for improved responsiveness. However, individuals who prefer a more hearty depth and feel may find the longer travel distance of the Flame Red more suitable. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when selecting a switch to ensure optimal typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Flame Red switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switch is described as having a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. The LT switch offers a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." It has a lower frequency range, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

Moving on to feel, the Flame Red switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. This indicates that these switches provide a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The qualities of the Flame Red switch stand in a safe and middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. It is also described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no available information describing the feel of the Gazzew LT switch.

In conclusion, the Flame Red and Gazzew LT switches differ in their sound and feel qualities. The Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a neutral and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switch provides a deep, resonant thockiness in its sound profile, offering a rich and bass-heavy auditory experience. While we do not have information on the specific feel of the LT switch, its lilac hue and seamless glide with every keystroke make it visually appealing. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve similar results in terms of feel and sound by making choices related to the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a visually stunning keyboard with a backlit RGB setup, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be your ideal choice. These switches not only offer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, but they also feature a dazzling light diffuser that enhances the visual appeal of your keyboard. On the other hand, if you are more interested in the auditory experience, the Gazzew LT linear switch is the way to go. With their enticing lilac hue, typing on these switches provides an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. Additionally, the LTs offer a seamless glide with every keystroke. In terms of sound, the Flame Red switches have a neutral profile suitable for most intents and purposes. In contrast, the LT switches offer a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile for a deep and rich auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, offering a safe and refined middle-ground zone. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the LT switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your priorities, whether you value aesthetics and backlighting or prioritize the auditory experience.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more