TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Mars

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two excellent contenders in the linear category are the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Mars switches. The Flame Red is celebrated not only for its smooth typing feel and noticeable clacky sound but also for its stunning light diffuser, making it a top pick for enthusiasts with RGB keyboards who want their setup to look as good as it feels. With a neutral, mild, and polished typing experience, it caters to users seeking a balanced yet engaging input. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars switch stands out with its unique POK stem design and housing made from a specialized blend of Nylon and POM, offering durability and a distinct feel that some users may prefer. Although both switches promise a smooth linear action, they cater to different preferences in terms of aesthetics and typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Gateron Mars Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Mars switches, it is evident that both share the same nylon material for their top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a rich, deep sound profile. This similarity means that when engaging with either switch, users will experience a comparable auditory feedback, resonating with a fuller sound as a result of the nylon's softer properties. The nylon’s sound absorption qualities dampen higher frequencies, yielding a rounder and more muted sound when typing, thus enhancing the overall typing experience by providing a more pleasant auditory environment.

In contrast, the bottom housing of these two switches demonstrates a clear distinction that affects their performance and sound profile. The TTC Flame Red employs a nylon bottom housing similar to its top counterpart, allowing for a consistent acoustic signature throughout the entire switch. This uniformity can lead to a cohesive typing experience with a sound profile that aligns closely with the characteristics established by the top housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars features a POM bottom housing, which is known for producing a unique sound quality. While still maintaining a deeper and more muted sound, the POM material introduces different textural responses that can enhance the tactile feedback during typing, allowing users to experience a slightly varied response compared to the nylon housing of the Flame Red.

The differences between the bottom housings of the Flame Red and Gateron Mars switches highlight how the interplay between various housing materials can influence tactile and auditory experiences in mechanical switches. While both switches share a nylon upper housing that ensures a similar sound profile when releasing keys, the POM bottom housing of the Mars switch provides a distinct sound and feel at the bottom-out point, which could appeal to users seeking a unique typing experience. Hence, despite their similarities in upper housing material leading to consistent sound during release, the divergence in the bottom housing design facilitates a nuanced variation in overall typing experience.

Weight

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them comparable in terms of the initial force required to register a keystroke. This similarity means that users will experience a comparable lightness when typing, appealing to those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. However, there is a notable difference in their bottom out forces: the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, which provides a firmer tactile feedback upon fully depressing the key, while the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unavailable. Therefore, we cannot directly compare the bottom out experiences between the two. Overall, the TTC Flame Red is the heavier option due to its bottom out force, while both switches have the same actuation force. Users seeking a lighter typing experience may appreciate the TTC Flame Red for its lower actuation force, but those preferring a firmer typing experience may find the Flame Red's heavier bottom out more satisfying.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Flame Red switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mars switch boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Flame Red the longer of the two, providing a more pronounced depth while typing, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Mars switch, with its reduced 3.6 mm travel, offers a quicker actuation point that can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences—those who favor a deeper feel may gravitate towards the Flame Red, while those who prioritize rapid key presses might prefer the Gateron Mars.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the TTC Flame Red linear switch is characterized as neutral, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a balanced sound that fits well in various environments, be it a home office or a more public space. This makes the Flame Red versatile and suitable for both beginners and experienced typists alike. In contrast, the sound profile of the Gateron Mars is not specified. However, it’s worth noting that the sound of a switch can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the keyboard's build and keycap material, meaning that if you're looking for a particular auditory experience with the Mars switch, you'll need to consider these external factors.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Flame Red is notably mild, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to many users. This is complemented by a polished finish, which contributes to a smooth keypress with reduced friction. The combination of these attributes results in an enjoyable and approachable typing experience. Unfortunately, the tactile characteristics of the Gateron Mars switches are not detailed, so their feel remains uncertain. Should the Mars switches share similar design qualities like smoothness or minimal friction, we could expect an equally smooth and pleasant experience, but without specific information, it's impossible to make a direct comparison.

In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is recognized for its stunning aesthetics, neutral sound, and a refined feel that's accessible to a broad audience. While the Gateron Mars switches feature a unique design and promise innovation, their specific sound and feel characteristics remain unknown. If you value a visually striking switch with a dependable acoustic and tactile experience, the Flame Red may be your best bet. However, if the Gateron Mars can deliver comparable qualities with its distinctive engineering, it could also be a worthy choice. In any case, understanding the underlying qualities of these switches will guide you toward a more satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, your personal preferences and typing needs should guide your choice. If you value a smooth and polished typing experience with a bit of clacky sound and are looking for aesthetic compatibility with RGB setups, the Flame Red switch is a fantastic option. Its medium-light actuation force of 54 grams makes it accessible for both casual and professional typists, offering a pleasing balance between feedback and ease of use. Conversely, if you're drawn to innovative designs and materials, and are interested in a switch that potentially offers different characteristics due to its unique housing blend, the Gateron Mars may be worth exploring—although do take into account that specific performance details are less available. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize visual appeal, sound profile, and a polished feel, or if you seek innovation in switch design. Each has its strengths, so consider your typing style, the sound you prefer, and the overall aesthetic of your keyboard to make the right choice.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Mars Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more