TTC Flame Red vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Red, both linear switches. The Flame Red stands out for its visually striking light diffuser, making it ideal for those who enjoy backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the MX Red, a classic Cherry switch, offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that is both responsive and satisfyingly deep. It is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. 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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Both the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Red utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile during typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound, which can be appealing to those who enjoy a quieter typing experience.
Despite both switches sharing the same housing material, the Flame Red and MX Red may still have slight differences in sound and feel due to their unique design and construction. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even with the same housing material, variations in the design of the switches can influence the overall typing experience for users, highlighting the importance of attention to detail in switch construction.
Overall, users can expect a similar typing experience when using either the TTC Flame Red or the Cherry MX Red switches due to their shared use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The nylon material's ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile creates a unique typing feel that is preferred by many enthusiasts. While there may be subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches, the shared housing material ensures a consistent typing experience that is characterized by a quieter and more satisfying sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams while the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Flame Red is considered medium-light due to its bottom out force, while the MX Red's weight is uncertain. Actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press a key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Flame Red, while individuals seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier bottom out force like the MX Red. Ultimately, the similar actuation force between the two switches may result in comparable typing experiences, but the difference in bottom out force may offer varying levels of tactile feedback and resistance.
Travel distance
The Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it is clear that they both offer a consistent key press experience with the same amount of distance traveled from top to bottom. This means that whether you choose the TTC Flame Red or the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of feel and actuation. Both switches provide a smooth and linear key press without any tactile feedback, making them suitable for gamers and typists who prefer a seamless keystroke. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is identical, ensuring a consistent typing experience regardless of which one you choose.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of users, whether they are beginners or experienced typists. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard they are installed in and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and smooth feel that most users will find approachable. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, meaning it may have noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that they offer different subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. While the Flame Red provides a neutral sound and a mild, polished feel, the MX Red offers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience that the user is looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you value a visually striking switch with a light diffuser for your backlit keyboard, along with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, then the Flame Red would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel, deeper sound profile with a thocky and low-pitched tone, then the MX Red would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of visuals, sound, and feel.
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