TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black both offer unique features to consider. The Flame Red is well-known for its stunning light diffuser, making it ideal for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard setup. Typing on this switch provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, giving it a neutral, mild, polished categorization. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black from Outemu lacks any standout features but is still a reliable choice. As there is no specific feature that sets it apart, it is categorized as standard. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound overall, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the Flame Red features a nylon top housing while the Dustproof Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Black results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, contrasting with the softer and more absorbing nature of nylon in the Flame Red.
The difference in top housing material between the Flame Red and the Dustproof Black further highlights the contrasting sound profiles each switch offers. While the Flame Red's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the Dustproof Black's polycarbonate top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the Dustproof Black. However, both switches ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience with their choice of housing materials, allowing users to enjoy a variety of sound profiles depending on their preferences.
Despite the differences in top housing material between the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel remains similar between the two switches, as nylon's softer nature allows for a deeper and fuller sound when typing. While the top housing material may affect the sound when releasing a key, both switches prioritize a satisfying typing experience with their housing choices, catering to different sound preferences for users.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Flame Red, as it allows for longer typing sessions without much fatigue. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial and forceful typing feel. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, meaning they offer the same tactile feedback and typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This makes them ideal choices for users who prefer a consistent typing experience across different keyboards. The similarity in travel distance between both switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress registration and overall typing feel. Overall, the travel distance of the Flame Red and Dustproof Black switches enhances typing comfort and accuracy, making them both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Dustproof Black 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 switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users whether they are beginners or advanced typists. The Dustproof Black switch's sound profile is unknown, but keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. This means that the typing feel is gentle and approachable to most users, while also offering a smooth and refined key travel due to potential factory lubing. On the other hand, the feel of the Dustproof Black switch is unknown.
Upon considering the information provided, the Flame Red and Dustproof Black switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a gentle, polished typing experience, the Flame Red switch may be the suitable choice for you. However, if the sound and feel of the Dustproof Black switch are compatible with your preferences, you may achieve similar results in terms of typing satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and intended use cases.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a visually appealing backlit keyboard with a medium-light bottom out force, smooth and weighty typing experience, and a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and are not concerned with specific sound or feel characteristics, the Dustproof Black switches may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and priorities in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
