TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Dustproof Blue. The Flame Red is a linear switch that is best known for its stunning visual appeal with a dazzling light diffuser, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a backlit RGB keyboard. Typing on Flame Reds offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, providing a unique tactile experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch that is not specifically categorized. While the Flame Red offers a neutral, mild, polished feel, the Dustproof Blue does not have any specific categorization. When deciding between these switches, it is important to consider what features are most important to you in a keyboard switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Flame Red features a nylon material while the Dustproof Blue utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Flame Red's nylon top housing, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile.
While both the Flame Red and Dustproof Blue switches share similar characteristics in their nylon bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials leads to distinct sound profiles. The Flame Red, with its nylon top housing, provides a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can impact the typing experience for users, with the Flame Red offering a more muffled and round sound while the Dustproof Blue delivers a clearer and more resonant tone.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Dustproof Blue will depend on the sound profile that users prefer in their mechanical keyboard switches. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials, nylon for the Flame Red and polycarbonate for the Dustproof Blue, results in distinct sound characteristics. Users looking for a deeper and fuller sound may prefer the Flame Red, while those seeking a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the Dustproof Blue. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 54 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams. The Flame Red switch provides a smoother and easier typing experience with a lighter touch, ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, suitable for users who prefer a heavier keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces in relation to typing comfort and typing speed.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, both switches have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 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 profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown as there is no information provided. Keep in mind that the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Flame Red linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a comfortable typing experience without any extreme characteristics. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is unknown, making it difficult to compare to the Flame Red in terms of typing feel.
Overall, the Flame Red linear switch is a versatile option with a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel that will cater to a broad range of users. Its compatibility with backlit, RGB keyboards also adds to its appeal. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remain unknown, it's important to consider personal preferences and intended use when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, so experimenting with different switches may be the best way to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a lower bottom out force and a smoother typing experience, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be a great choice, especially if you prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a higher bottom out force and a more tactile typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and visual aesthetics for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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