TTC Flame Red vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Master both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red is praised for its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who enjoy backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Master switch from Dareu offers a medium weight, classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness during operation. While the Flame Reds are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Master switch falls under the categories of 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 the Dareu Master switches both offer unique sound profiles when typing. The Flame Red's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Master's POM housing also produces a pleasing and deep sound profile, albeit with a more muted overall tone. Both housing materials contribute to a unique typing experience, with the Flame Red offering a slightly more resonant sound compared to the Master's more subdued sound.
While the top housing materials of the Flame Red and Master switches differ, with the Flame Red using nylon and the Master using POM, both materials bring their own characteristics to the typing experience. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Master creates a unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This difference in sound profile can be attributed to the properties of the respective plastics used in the top housing of each switch.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Flame Red and Master switches, the qualities of each material contribute to the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Flame Red enhances the deep and fuller sound profile of the switch, while the POM bottom housing of the Master adds to the unique and muted sound profile. Regardless of the differences in housing materials between the top and bottom of each switch, both the Flame Red and Master offer a distinct typing experience that is influenced by the specific properties of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Master switch, which has an unknown bottom out force. This difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches. Generally, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Master switch, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Flame Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Flame Red TTC linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Flame Red switch offers a slightly longer keypress distance compared to the Master switch. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Master switch with its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker keypresses and response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress depth may find the Flame Red switch to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress 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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Flame Red switch offers a neutral profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its clacky sound profile adds a satisfying auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Master switch provides a distinctively clacky sound, bringing a sharp and percussive quality to each keystroke. Both switches deliver excellent sound characteristics, with the Flame Red offering a more neutral sound while the Master provides a sharper and more distinct clack.
Moving on to feel, both the Flame Red and Master switches offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. The polished finish of both switches enhances smoothness and reduces friction, resulting in a refined typing experience. With their medium weight and smooth operation, users can expect a comfortable and consistent typing feel from both switches. The similarities in feel between the Flame Red and Master switches make them suitable choices for users looking for a gentle typing experience with a polished feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red and Dareu Master linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Flame Red provides a neutral sound profile and a weighty smoothness, the Master switch stands out with its sharp and clacky sound signature. Both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and refined feel with reduced friction. Ultimately, choosing between the Flame Red and Master switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and slight differences in feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flame Red linear switch or the Dareu Master linear switch, you should take into account your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a visually stunning keyboard with dazzling RGB lighting, a medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams, and a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, then the Flame Red is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic clacky sound signature, exceptional smoothness in operation, and a medium weight switch with an unspecified bottom out force, then the Dareu Master would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and aesthetic preferences for your keyboard setup.
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