TTC Flame Red vs. Everglide Oreo

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Everglide Oreo offer unique experiences for users. The Flame Red, a linear switch, stands out with its stunning light diffuser, making it a top choice for those who prefer a backlit or RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo is a tactile switch that offers a delectable treat for your fingertips. With a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out, these switches strike the perfect balance between satisfaction and comfort. The Oreo also offers a more subtle and mellow sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Everglide Oreo Tactile

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$6.86

$4.19 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Everglide Oreo, one noticeable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Flame Red utilizes nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. As a result, typing on Flame Red switches produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Oreo's top housing is made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in materials leads to a distinct difference in sound profiles between the two switches. Furthermore, the Oreo's clear polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those planning to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a more visually appealing lighting effect.

Similarly, when examining the bottom housings of the Flame Red and the Oreo, differences in sound profiles become apparent. The Flame Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition. Conversely, the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Aesthetically speaking, the Oreo's clear polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, providing a cohesive and visually appealing experience.

It is important to note that the properties of the top and bottom housing materials are divided between the Flame Red and the Oreo. When pressing down on either switch, you will primarily feel the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the sound when letting go of a key will be influenced more by the top housing. While both switches differ in their sound profiles due to their distinct housing materials, they are capable of delivering satisfying typing experiences in their own unique ways.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent and familiar typing experience when using either switch.

However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a slight variation between the two switches. The Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, while the Oreo has a bottom out force of 55 grams. These values indicate that the Oreo switch requires a slightly heavier force to fully press down compared to the Flame Red. Although the difference is minimal, it may be a factor to consider for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.

In terms of weight, both switches fall into the category of being medium-light. This weight is suitable for individuals who prefer a relatively lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. Whether it is for work or long gaming sessions, the lighter weight of these switches can provide comfort and ease of use.

Overall, while the actuation force remains the same for both the Flame Red and Oreo switches, the slight variation in bottom out force may lead to a slightly different typing experience. Those who appreciate a lighter typing feel may find both switches to be suitable, while those seeking a slightly heavier push may lean towards the Oreo switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed down on a key. In the case of both the Flame Red and Oreo switches, this distance is consistent at 4 mm. Therefore, users can expect similar results and experiences in terms of the travel distance when using either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Flame Red switch has a neutral profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use the switches at home or at work. On the other hand, the Oreo switch has a chirpy sound profile. This unique acoustic signature sets it apart from other switches and gives it a little squeak. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish. The mild characteristic means that it provides a gentle typing experience that most people will find approachable. The polished finish adds to the smoothness, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Oreo switch is described as accented and stepped. Accented switches fall into a middle ground category where they provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Stepped switches, as the name suggests, have a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.

In summary, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is best known for its visual appeal with a dazzling light diffuser, making it ideal for backlit, RGB keyboards. It offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch provides a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. It has a palatable medium light tactility and a subtle, mellow sound profile. While they differ in some subjective qualities, both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve similar results with either switch.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, the decision between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize visual aesthetics and enjoy the experience of a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Reds with their dazzling light diffuser are the obvious choice. Additionally, these switches offer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, giving you a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches are the way to go. These switches strike the perfect balance between tactile feedback and comfortable typing, accompanied by a subtle, mellow sound profile. Ultimately, consider your priorities in visuals, sound, and feel to make the decision that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Oreo Tactile

$6.86

$4.19 per 10

Learn more