TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Oil King, both linear switches. The Flame Red stands out with its dazzling light diffuser, making it an excellent choice if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches offers a weighty smoothness accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Oil King is widely praised for its buttery smoothness, comparable to the satisfaction of snapping into a dark chocolate bar. Its sound profile is characterized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished. These general pointers provide a glimpse into the unique qualities of each switch. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision when choosing your ideal switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Oil King switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize nylon as their top housing material, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material in these switches is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Flame Red and Oil King switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable difference between the two switches. The Flame Red switch features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to its overall sound profile. The softer nylon material in the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch incorporates a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing. This unique blend results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. The Oil King's bottom housing brings a satisfying thin and clacky sound to the typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Oil King switches have nylon as their top housing material, the difference lies in their bottom housing. The Flame Red provides a rounder and duller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Oil King offers a thinner and clackier sound because of its proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Therefore, typing on the Flame Red switch would elicit a deeper and fuller sound, while using the Oil King switch would result in a thinner and higher-pitched sound.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Oil King's slightly heavier 55 grams. This means that a lighter touch is required to register a keystroke on the Flame Red, allowing for faster typing speeds and a potentially more comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a lighter switch. On the other hand, the Oil King requires a stronger push with its higher actuation force, which may be favored by users who prefer a more substantial typing feel or need more resistance to prevent accidental key presses.
In terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, while the Oil King has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that when typing on the Flame Red, the keys will require slightly less force to fully depress compared to the Oil King. This lighter bottom out force may be beneficial for those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue and strain. However, for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a firmer keystroke, the Oil King's heavier bottom out force may provide a more satisfying typing experience.
Although the Flame Red and Oil King have different actuation and bottom out forces, both switches fall within the medium range. Therefore, users who prefer a balance between light and heavy switches will find similar results with either option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the feeling and response of the switches when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a satisfying level of key travel, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 TTC Flame Red switch provides a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and is suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. This gives it a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The switch has a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the smooth and refined finish of the Flame Red switch enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Oil King switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. These qualities contribute to a smooth and buttery typing experience, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The overall smoothness of the Oil King switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Oil King switches have some subjective differences in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, and it has a neutral sound and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Oil King switch provides a buttery smoothness with a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. It has a low-pitched, bassy sound and a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished feel. While they have their own unique qualities, both switches are designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Depending on your personal preference, choosing either switch will likely result in similar satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize visuals and want a switch that will complement your backlit, RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be an excellent choice. Its light diffuser adds a dazzling visual element to your typing experience. In terms of sound, the Flame Red offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for various purposes. It provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound that many users enjoy. When it comes to feel, the Flame Red is mild and polished, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is the way to go. It provides a buttery smoothness and a rich sound that adds depth to each keystroke. In terms of feel, the Oil King is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless keystrokes.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Oil King linear switches depends on your preferences. If you prioritize visual appeal, a weighty smoothness, and a clacky sound, the Flame Red is your best bet. However, if you prefer a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile and a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, the Oil King is the way to go. Consider your priorities and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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