TTC Flame Red vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Mamba, both of which are linear switches. Each switch offers unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Flame Red stands out for its visually impressive light diffuser, making it a perfect choice for those who value a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on Flame Reds delivers a satisfying weighty smoothness accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Mamba switches pay homage to Kobe Bryant and provide users with a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. These switches are categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. However, let's delve 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and the Durock Mamba both use nylon as their top housing material, although they have different descriptions and sound profiles. The Flame Red's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant sound that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches utilize nylon top housings, so users can expect similar characteristics such as increased sound absorption and a fuller sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the Flame Red utilizes nylon, while the Mamba incorporates POM. Nylon bottom housing in the Flame Red switch contributes to the same deeper and fuller sound profile as the top housing. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience overall. On the other hand, the Mamba's POM bottom housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Although they offer different sound profiles, both switches utilize different materials for their bottom housings, indicating that the bottom-out sound and feel may vary between the two.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in sound production. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the qualities brought by each housing material will be split, with the bottom housing having a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when keys are released. This means that while the Flame Red and the Mamba may have different housing materials for their top and bottom, the overall sound experience will still be influenced by both components, providing a unique auditory sensation with each switch press.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger keystrokes, while the Mamba's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches share a similar medium bottom out force, with the Flame Red requiring 54 grams and the Mamba requiring 60 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the Flame Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows for prolonged use without fatigue. On the other hand, those who desire a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Mamba with its medium-weight bottom out force could be a suitable choice.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Flame Red is known to be lighter than the Mamba, both switches provide a medium-level bottom out force. This means that typists and gamers looking for similar results in terms of pressure required for bottoming out can achieve it with either switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch have different travel distances. The Flame Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mamba has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Flame Red's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper and more satisfying key press experience. On the other hand, the Mamba's 3.5mm travel distance is on the shallower side, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Mamba's shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press, the Flame Red with its slightly longer travel distance would be more suitable. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 TTC Flame Red linear switch is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer backlit, RGB keyboards. When typing on these switches, users will experience a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. Both switches have a similar neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound. However, the Mamba switches also have a thocky sound quality, which adds a deep and satisfying element to the typing experience. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience, making them comfortable for most users. They are also described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both the Flame Red and the Mamba switches provide a pleasant typing experience with their own unique visual and auditory characteristics. While the sound and feel may have slight differences, users can expect similar results from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a backlit, RGB keyboard and appreciate a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the way to go. Not only does it provide a dazzling light diffuser, but it also offers a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch is a great choice. It is a tribute to Kobe Bryant and offers a neutral sound profile with the added bonus of a thocky sound. Additionally, it provides a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, both switches have a medium actuation force requirement and are suitable for a wide range of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to consider these factors and choose the switch that best fits your personal preferences and needs.
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