TTC Flame Red vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Orange. The Flame Red switches stand out not only for their performance but also for their stunning design, featuring a dazzling light diffuser that enhances the appearance of backlit and RGB keyboards. Users often appreciate the weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile while typing, making it an engaging experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, reissued with the MX2A generation enhancements, provide a nostalgic typing feel that appeals to those who remember the original MX Orange from Cherry's Japanese partner, Hirose. While the MX Orange is well-regarded for its reliability and consistent performance, the Flame Red offers a visually striking option with a unique auditory experience. Both switches cater to different user preferences, making them worthy contenders in the mechanical keyboard market. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and Cherry MX Orange switches, both are constructed using nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality ensures that both switches elicit a similar auditory experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively absorbs vibrations and sound waves, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Whether one is using the TTC Flame Red or the Cherry MX Orange, typists can expect to enjoy a muted auditory feedback that enhances the tactile experience of the switches.

Despite their similarities in material, the nuances of sound and feel depend on the characteristics of the individual switches and how each housing contributes to the overall typing experience. For both the Flame Red and the MX Orange, the impact of the bottom housing becomes more pronounced when the key is fully pressed down, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the auditory feedback experienced when releasing the key. This interplay means that, while users will experience similar quality from both switches due to the nylon construction, the overall sensation may still differ based on the design and engineering behind each specific switch type.

Ultimately, the identical housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and Cherry MX Orange switches create a foundation for a comparable typing experience, particularly in terms of sound profile. Users seeking a specific auditory response will likely find satisfaction in both switches, owing to the inherent properties of the nylon used. However, individual preferences for the tactile feel and actuation characteristics might lead some users to favor one switch over the other despite their similar materials. In essence, the fundamental design and functional parameters of each switch determine the nuanced differences in user experience, despite their shared nylon housing lineage.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch with a 45-gram actuation force and a 54-gram bottom out force to the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, which has a 55-gram actuation force and an unavailable bottom out force, we see some notable differences. The Flame Red switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it a better option for users who prefer a softer touch, allowing for comfortable typing over long periods, whether for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, with its higher actuation force, offers a sturdier feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Since the bottom out force for the MX Orange is not specified, we cannot directly compare this aspect, but it could potentially contribute to a different tactile feedback experience. Overall, users will find that the TTC Flame Red is more suited for light touch enthusiasts, while the Cherry MX Orange may be preferred by those who favor a heavier push feel.

Travel distance

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this regard. This similarity means that users will experience a comparable feel when pressing down on the keys, as both switches require the same amount of movement from the top to the bottom. Consequently, whether using the Flame Red or the MX Orange, one can expect similar performance and responsiveness based on their equal travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red switch delivers a clacky sound profile that balances well with its neutral characteristics. This makes it versatile for various environments, whether you're typing at home or in a shared workspace. The moderate sound level ensures it won't disturb those around you while still providing an audible cue of each keypress. The specifics of the Cherry MX Orange's sound profile are less detailed, but with its heritage of being reissued from the sought-after original model, it can be inferred that the sound is designed to maintain a pleasant acoustic experience, likely mirroring the subtlety found in the Flame Red.

In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red switch shines with its mild and polished characteristics. The mildness of the switch offers a gentle typing experience that can cater to both beginners and more seasoned typists, making it approachable for most users. The polished nature further enhances this experience, providing smooth key travel with reduced friction, resulting in a sleek and satisfying action. Without specific details on the feel of the Cherry MX Orange, one can speculate that it likely aims for a similarly refined tactile experience, though the absence of descriptive feedback leaves some uncertainty.

Overall, both the TTC Flame Red and Cherry MX Orange switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Flame Red is noteworthy for its smooth, clacky action and impressive lighting compatibility, while the MX Orange aims to meet the demands of those nostalgic for its original predecessors. While the exact details for the MX Orange remain less defined in comparison, users can generally expect a pleasant and reliable typing experience from both switches, ensuring satisfaction across the board regardless of choice.

Conclusion

In summary, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Orange switches, consider your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a visually appealing switch that enhances your RGB keyboard setup, the Flame Red is a fantastic choice, thanks to its striking light diffuser and smooth, clacky sound profile. Its medium-light actuation force of 54 grams makes it more accessible for prolonged typing sessions, appealing to both beginners and experienced users alike. Additionally, the neutral sound profile and polished feel of the Flame Red switch create an enjoyable and versatile typing experience suitable for various environments, from gaming to office use. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the rich history and the refined enhancements of Cherry’s MX Orange switches, you may find them compelling for your setup. They are designed to provide a softer tactile experience with a balanced force suitable for typing without being overly loud, perfect for those who prefer a quieter workspace. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you value aesthetics and versatility (Flame Red) or if you prefer a traditional and polished typing experience that is rooted in legacy (MX Orange). Consider your personal comfort and style preference to find the switch that best complements your typing habits.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more