TTC Flame Red vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different needs. The Flame Red is renowned for its stunning light diffuser, making it a top choice for those who prioritize visual aesthetics in their backlit RGB keyboards. It offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver excels in rapid response with its linear action and low spring resistance, perfect for gamers seeking maximum speed and instantaneous key triggers. While the Flame Red is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the MX Speed Silver falls under textured, thocky, and low-pitched. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, contributing to an overall tactile typing experience in both switches. With similar housing materials, users can expect a consistent sound and feel across both the Flame Red and the Speed Silver when typing on these switches.
However, despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the sound and feel of typing on the Flame Red versus the Speed Silver. These variances could be attributed to the specific design and construction of each switch, as well as any additional components that may impact the overall typing experience. While the nylon housing in both switches plays a significant role in creating a deeper sound profile, the unique characteristics of each switch may result in slightly different tactile feedback during typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Cherry MX Speed Silver may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that users are looking for. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and typing feel due to their shared use of nylon for the housing materials. Whether users prefer a slightly different sound when pressing down on a key or releasing it, they can expect a consistent and tactile typing experience with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 30 grams. In contrast, the Flame Red has a higher actuation force of 45 grams. Despite the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver being unknown, the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it the heavier option when considering how much force is required to press all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the MX Speed Silver for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Flame Red with its heavier forces for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Flame Red offers a traditional travel distance while the MX Speed Silver provides a shallower feel. Gamers tend to prefer the shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Flame Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, so selecting the one that best suits your needs will result in a satisfying typing experience with either option.
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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 Flame Red switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more bass-heavy tone. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild typing experience with a weighty smoothness that falls into a safe middle-ground zone of characteristics. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. On the contrary, the MX Speed Silver switch is characterized as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience without any added texture.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a switch with a dazzling light diffuser for a backlit keyboard, a weighty smoothness, and a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red switch is the way to go. However, if you value maximum speed with a linear action and low spring resistance for instant triggering, the MX Speed Silver switch is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flame Red linear switch or the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a weighty smoothness, and a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you value a visually captivating light diffuser for your RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid response, maximum speed, and a low spring resistance, the MX Speed Silver is the go-to switch, particularly for gamers seeking that split-second advantage. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches may come down to whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and a polished typing experience with the Flame Red, or a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured feel with the MX Speed Silver. Consider your preferences and needs carefully before making your selection.
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