TTC Flame Red vs. Cherry MX Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Black both offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red is renowned for its stunning visuals, particularly its dazzling light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard setup. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches, enhanced by Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, offer a classic textured smoothness that many enthusiasts appreciate. These switches produce a deep sound profile, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. While these general pointers give a glimpse into the strengths of each switch, let's dive deeper to analyze their attributes and determine which one best suits your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Cherry MX Black Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the TTC Flame Red and Cherry MX Black switches utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in similar characteristics in terms of sound and feel. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality of nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound, which can be experienced when typing on either of these switches.

However, if we analyze the differences between the top and bottom housings of these switches, we can identify some variations in their effects. The Flame Red switch has separate nylon top and bottom housings, whereas the MX Black switch may or may not have the same construction. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each housing material are distributed throughout the switch's structure. When pressing down a switch, the impact and resulting sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be affected more by the top housing.

Overall, the similarities in the nylon housing of both the Flame Red and MX Black switches result in comparable deep and full sound profiles when typing. The differences lie in the distribution of the housing qualities within the switch's structure. By understanding the impact of the bottom and top housings, users can better analyze the specific effects each switch will have on the sound and feel when typing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Flame Red switch has a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the MX Black switch requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch may find the Flame Red switch more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions.

Moving on to the bottom out force, which measures the force needed to press the key all the way down, we see further distinctions. The Flame Red switch has a bottom out force of 54 grams, which is relatively similar to its actuation force, providing a consistent typing experience throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the MX Black switch requires a significantly higher bottom out force of 80 grams, resulting in a more substantial and pronounced keystroke.

For users who prioritize a lighter typing experience and the ability to type for longer durations, the Flame Red switch may be the preferable choice. Its medium-light actuation force and relatively similar bottom out force offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience. Conversely, those seeking a stronger and more substantial push feel may opt for the MX Black switch. With its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, this switch provides a tactile typing experience that some may find satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have the same travel distance, both measuring at 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a similar tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Flame Red switch can be described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for various purposes and users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the MX Black switch is known for its low-pitched sound. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's worth noting that the sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. Being a mild switch, it offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to a wide range of users, as its qualities are in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Flame Red switch is polished, which results in a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, creating a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black switch is known to be textured and stiff. Textured switches have noticeable friction when pressed, which is preferred by some users. However, others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Additionally, MX Black switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, making them feel stiffer compared to other switches.

In conclusion, the Flame Red and MX Black switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, while the MX Black switch provides a deep sound profile with Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling for a classic textured smoothness. The Flame Red switch has a neutral sound profile, while the MX Black switch has a low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch is mild and polished, ensuring a gentle and refined typing experience, while the MX Black switch is textured and stiff, offering noticeable friction and requiring more force to actuate. While these switches offer distinct experiences, it's important to consider personal preferences and the impact of other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and want a backlit, RGB keyboard, then the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches are known for their dazzling light diffusers, making them perfect for those who want to showcase their keyboard's lighting effects. Additionally, the Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is the way to go. With Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, these switches provide a familiar typing experience with a low-pitched and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the Flame Red offers a mild and polished experience, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Meanwhile, the MX Black has a textured feel, which some users prefer, but it also requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your priorities in terms of visuals, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more