TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Magnetic Jade. The TTC Flame Red, a linear switch, stands out not only for its functionality but also for its striking aesthetics, making it an excellent choice for users who value backlighting and RGB features. The switch offers a weighty smoothness and a pleasingly clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience categorized as 'Neutral,' 'Mild,' and 'Polished.' In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade employs cutting-edge hall effect technology, delivering bright acoustics and a robust sound that appeals to those looking for an upgraded typing experience. Both switches present unique advantages: the Flame Red shines in customization with its captivating visuals, while the Magnetic Jade prioritizes acoustic performance and responsiveness. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches exhibit notable differences in terms of sound profile and functionality, largely due to their distinct compositions. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper, more resonant sound. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature results in a clearer audio profile, making it particularly effective in amplifying the higher-pitched tones. Thus, the contrasting materials contribute to different auditory sensations, catering to varying preferences among users.
Despite the differences in their top housings, both the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches share a nylon bottom housing. This similarity ensures that switching experiences are somewhat aligned in terms of the overall sound profile, as both switches maintain a consistent, deeper sound attributable to the nylon's properties. In practical terms, while the Flame Red creates a more muted sound when pressing keys due to the influence of its nylon housing on both top and bottom, the Magnetic Jade shares that deep sound quality thanks to its nylon bottom. Here, the synergy created by the nylon bottom allows both switches to produce a simultaneously rich sound when bottoming out, albeit under varying auditory experiences individiually attributed to their top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combined effect of different top housing materials in the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches leads to a unique yet somewhat cohesive typing experience. Users will note that the sound produced when releasing a key will differ based on the switch’s top material, with the Flame Red offering a softer and richer sound while the Magnetic Jade delivers a more piercing and bright tone. However, since both share a common nylon bottom housing, some characteristics, such as the muffled bottom-out sound, will remain consistent across both switches. As a result, while distinct in their sound profiles and tactile responses due to their top housings, the overall experience of typing on these switches can still yield similarities due to the inherent qualities of their nylon bottoms, making for an interesting contrast and comparison.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we observe some notable differences. The Flame Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, indicating a moderate feel that balances ease of use with a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch exhibits a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, but has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while the Magnetic Jade switch requires less effort to activate, users will still encounter a similar resistance when bottoming out as with the Flame Red. Consequently, the TTC Flame Red is heavier in terms of actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade, being the lighter option, caters to users who value extended typing sessions with reduced fatigue. Both switches provide a medium-light typing experience but do so with distinct actuation weights.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Flame Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Magnetic Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Flame Red the longer option, offering a more conventional depth that some users might find provides a satisfying tactile experience. In contrast, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Magnetic Jade may cater to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, which is becoming increasingly popular in the current market. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Magnetic Jade may be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a more substantial feel, the Flame Red would be the way to go.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red switch presents a neutral profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force that provides a balanced auditory experience suitable for various environments, be it home or office. This makes it an excellent choice for users who appreciate versatility. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is known for delivering a bright and clacky sound, specifically tailored for those seeking enhanced acoustics, especially when used in a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. While both switches produce sound that is distinct and engaging, the Flame Red's neutrality offers flexibility, while the Magnetic Jade offers a more pronounced auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch is described as having a mild and polished quality. This means that the typing experience is gentle yet refined, making it accessible for a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned typists. The smooth key travel is a result of careful material selection and possibly factory lubing, which minimizes friction. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is not specified. However, users can typically expect a satisfying tactile experience from switches of this nature, with the sound and feel complementary to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches offer unique advantages tailored to different preferences. The Flame Red is ideal for those who seek a balanced, smooth typing experience with versatility in sound, making it suitable for a variety of settings. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade provides a brighter auditory profile, likely enhancing the typing experience for users who prioritize sound. While sound and feel characteristics vary distinctly between the two, your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a neutral setup or a more pronounced auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch largely depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for a switch that excels in aesthetics and provides a balanced, pleasant typing experience with a weighty smoothness, the Flame Red is your go-to option. It's particularly suited for RGB setups due to its visually striking light diffuser and offers a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile choice whether you're a beginner or an experienced typist in various environments. On the other hand, if you seek a superior typing experience with enhanced acoustics, particularly on a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard, the Magnetic Jade is designed for you. It delivers a bright, clacky sound and is perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback alongside a reliably smooth keystroke. Thus, your ultimate decision should hinge on whether you value visual appeal and moderate sound for general use or aim for an acoustic upgrade specifically on a compatible platform.
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