TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and Outemu Brown offer distinct experiences for users. The Flame Red is a linear switch that is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer backlit RGB keyboards. Typing on Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, giving a unique tactile feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown is a tactile switch that lacks a standout feature but is appreciated for its subtle feedback and quiet typing experience. While Flame Reds are categorized as neutral, mild, polished, Outemu Browns do not fall into any particular category. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Brown, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the TTC Flame Red or the Outemu Brown due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
On the other hand, the top housing of the TTC Flame Red features nylon, while the Outemu Brown utilizes polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the Outemu Brown's top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Flame Red's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate's relatively stiffer plastic composition leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the user's setup that the Flame Red's opaque nylon top housing may not provide.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Brown may come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and aesthetic considerations. While both switches share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. Users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Flame Red, while those seeking a sharper and crisper sound may opt for the Outemu Brown with its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable performance and a satisfying typing experience, with the nuances in housing materials providing subtle differences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Flame Red is lighter in both aspects. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, which classifies it as medium-light. In contrast, the Brown switch has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Flame Red will provide a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Brown switch will offer a more substantial push feel, catering to those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar level of key travel. The Flame Red and Brown switches are equal in terms of the distance they travel, providing a consistent typing experience for users who prefer either linear or tactile feedback.
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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Flame Red offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. It provides a moderate actuation force and sound level, making it versatile for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, details about the sound profile of the Outemu Brown switch are unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Remember, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined feel. This switch strikes a balance between being gentle on the fingers and providing a satisfying typing experience. Unfortunately, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Brown switch are not available for comparison. However, if the Flame Red switch is any indication, you can expect a similar level of smoothness and comfort with the Outemu Brown switch.
Overall, the TTC Flame Red linear switch stands out for its visually appealing light diffuser, smooth typing experience, and versatile sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel qualities. Considering the similarities in the feel and sound profiles of mechanical switches within the same category, it's safe to assume that the Outemu Brown switch might offer a similarly pleasant typing experience to the Flame Red switch. As always, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your needs, so it's essential to try them out firsthand if possible.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a visually stunning light diffuser and want a smooth, weighty typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red is the way to go, especially if you have a backlit RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a neutral switch suitable for a variety of uses, the Brown switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for feel, sound, and visual aesthetics when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
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