TTC Flame Red vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, one can see some notable differences. The Flame Red is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it perfect for those who enjoy backlit, RGB keyboards. With a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, typing on these switches provides a unique experience categorized as ['Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished']. On the other hand, the Miaowu Switch stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, as well as the use of POK in its stem, distinguishing it from switches with conventional POM stems. This switch offers a bouncy and clacky typing experience under the ['Bouncy', 'Clacky'] category. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and KTT Miaowu both utilize nylon for their top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The difference lies in the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the duller and rounder sound of nylon. The Flame Red's nylon bottom housing also contributes to the overall sound profile, absorbing sound for a deeper tone. On the other hand, the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing also enhances the sound profile, creating a fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition.
While both switches feature nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Flame Red and Miaowu diverge in their top housing materials. The Flame Red’s nylon top housing absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound, while the Miaowu’s polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material affects the overall sound experience when typing on each switch, providing users with a unique auditory sensation based on the housing material used.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of a switch impacts the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. The contrasting characteristics of nylon and polycarbonate in the Flame Red and Miaowu switches showcase how different housing materials can affect the overall typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer a quality typing experience, each with its own distinct sound profile based on the chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, we can see that the Flame Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Miaowu's 43 grams. However, the Flame Red also has a higher bottom out force of 54 grams, while the Miaowu has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Flame Red switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of the differences in force, users can expect similar results in terms of key response and overall typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Miaowu's 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Flame Red offering a more standard length and the Miaowu providing a slightly shallower feel. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Miaowu, while those who appreciate a more robust key press may opt for the Flame Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 offers a neutral sound profile, making it versatile and suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and somewhat more distinctive. The sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build quality and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined feel that is gentle on the fingers. The KTT Miaowu switch, in contrast, provides a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, giving a lively feel to each keystroke. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a more subtle feel or a more pronounced feedback.
In conclusion, while the Flame Red and Miaowu switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, both provide quality typing experiences in their own right. The Flame Red switch excels in visual appeal with its light diffuser and offers a neutral sound profile and polished feel. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch boasts enhanced stem stability, POK in its stem, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red and KTT Miaowu linear switches, consider the specific features and qualities that align with your preferences and needs. If you prioritize visual aesthetics and enjoy a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red with its dazzling light diffuser may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you value stem stability, smoother keystroke action, and the unique POK stem material, the Miaowu switch from KTT could be the perfect fit. Additionally, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, the Flame Red may suit you best. Conversely, if you enjoy a sharp, snappy, and bouncy feel with a clacky sound profile, the Miaowu switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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