TTC Flame Red vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Brown are two popular options that offer unique experiences. The Flame Red is best known for its visually striking feature: a dazzling light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who value aesthetics and own a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, creating a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown switches can be described in one word: subtlety. These switches offer a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. Categorized as textured, bassy, and low-pitched, MX Browns provide a more understated and comfortable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Brown switches are both made of nylon, making them similar in terms of the overall sound profile they produce. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can enhance the typing experience for some users. Therefore, whether using the Flame Red or the MX Brown, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound quality.
However, despite their similarities, the Flame Red and MX Brown switches may differ in terms of how the housing materials affect specific aspects of typing. If the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, such as in the case of the Flame Red, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that it has a greater impact on how the switch sounds and feels when a key is fully pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, resulting in a distinct sound profile when the key is let go.
In summary, the Flame Red and MX Brown switches share the same nylon housing material, which leads to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. However, the Flame Red's housing is divided between its top and bottom, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This subdivision may result in slight variations in the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, while the MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams. Although the difference is minimal, it can be noted that the MX Brown requires a slightly heavier force to fully press the keys compared to the Flame Red.
Considering the weight aspect, both switches fall under the medium-light category, making them suitable for different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Flame Red, as it provides a smoother and less fatiguing typing experience, ideal for long periods of typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial tactile feedback and a stronger push feel might opt for the MX Brown with its slightly heavier bottom out force. This can provide a more satisfying and pronounced typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Flame Red and MX Brown would depend on the individual's personal preference regarding typing feel and the desired force required for a keystroke. Nonetheless, both switches offer similar actuation forces and will yield comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a similar tactile feedback and offer a comfortable typing experience. So whether you choose the TTC Flame Red or the Cherry MX Brown, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 is considered to have a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate level of sound during key presses, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch is described as bassy and low-pitched. This means that it produces a deeper and richer sound, resembling bass tones. The MX Brown switch offers a more distinct and prominent audio feedback compared to the Flame Red switch.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic indicates that it has a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch is described as textured. This means that it has noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. However, others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing feel.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Flame Red and MX Brown switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Flame Red switch provides a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Its visual appeal with the light diffuser also makes it an excellent choice for backlit keyboards. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch offers a subtler typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. It is ideal for those who prefer a lighter and more subtle typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Flame Red and MX Brown switches have their own unique qualities, they both offer enjoyable typing experiences. If you are looking for a backlit keyboard with a weightier feel and clacky sound, the Flame Red switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter and more subtle typing experience, the MX Brown switch will provide a gentle tactile feel with subdued audio feedback. Ultimately, personal preference and the specific keyboard setup will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
In closing, to sum up the comparison between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is important to consider your specific preferences and needs when choosing between the two. If you prioritize a visually stunning keyboard with RGB backlighting, the Flame Red is the way to go. Its dazzling light diffuser makes it the perfect choice for those who want their keyboard to stand out. Additionally, the Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and gentle typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown is the better option. These switches offer a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. The MX Brown switches are best known for their subtlety, making them suitable for those who prefer a more restrained and refined typing experience.
When it comes to sound, the Flame Red switch is neutral, providing a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. The MX Brown switches, on the other hand, offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer audio experience during key presses.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch is mild and polished, offering a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch may have a textured or scratchy feel, which some users may prefer for added tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the decision between the Flame Red and MX Brown switches comes down to personal preferences. Consider your priorities in terms of visuals, typing experience, sound profile, and feel when making your choice. By weighing these factors, you can determine which switch will provide the best overall typing experience for you.
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