TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and Outemu Blue offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red is a linear switch that boasts a visually captivating light diffuser, making it ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics and enjoy backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile, perfect for those seeking a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch known for its loud and tactile feedback, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy the audible click while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Blue both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Flame Red featuring nylon for both top and bottom housings, and the Outemu Blue utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The use of nylon in both top and bottom housings for the Flame Red results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Outemu Blue's combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings respectively creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, with the stiffer polycarbonate leading to a more clear and resonant sound.
While the top housing materials of the Flame Red and Outemu Blue differ, both switches share the use of nylon in the bottom housing. This commonality ensures that typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's absorbent nature for sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches allows for a balance in sound profile qualities, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when a key is released.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Blue makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, as the material's translucency allows for better light dispersion. On the other hand, while the Flame Red's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual appeal for RGB lighting effects, it still provides a unique sound experience with its softer and more absorbent properties. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Flame Red is the lighter of the two. With an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, the Flame Red provides a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences; some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Flame Red for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the stronger push feel of the Outemu Blue for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, understanding the weight difference between these switches can help users make a more informed decision based on their typing needs and preferences.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. While both switches offer the same travel distance, they differ in terms of their tactile feedback and sound. The Flame Red linear switch provides a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click, making it a preferred choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible click with each keystroke, adding a satisfying feedback for those who enjoy a clicky sound while typing. Overall, while the travel distance is the same for both switches, the difference in tactile feedback and sound can cater to different preferences in 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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Flame Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The tactile feel of the Flame Red switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound or feel description available. However, it is known for its satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities and it would be up to the individual's preference - if a softer and more visually appealing typing experience is desired, the Flame Red switch would be a great choice, whereas if a more tactile and audible typing experience is preferred, the Outemu Blue switch would be the way to go.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a dazzling light diffuser for a backlit, RGB keyboard, a weighty smoothness, and a clacky sound profile, then the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a clicky sound profile and a light typing experience, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and visual aesthetics in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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