TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red, a linear switch, and the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, offer contrasting experiences for users. The Flame Red stands out for its stunning light diffuser, making it ideal for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard setup. With a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, typing on these switches can be a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green lacks a standout feature but provides a distinctive clicky sound while typing. While the Flame Red is categorized as 'neutral', 'mild', 'polished', the Green switch does not fall into any specific 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
65g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Green switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profiles. The Flame Red's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Green's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, as its stiffer plastic creates a clear and resonant sound profile. This difference in material ultimately affects the overall typing experience, with the Flame Red offering a more muted and softer sound compared to the Green's more vibrant and crisp sound.
Both the Flame Red and the Outemu Green switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality. However, the differences in their top housing materials, nylon for the Flame Red and polycarbonate for the Green, still result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, such as the Flame Red and the Outemu Green, the respective qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a more nuanced typing experience, where users can appreciate the unique characteristics that each housing material brings to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, we see a clear difference in weight. The Flame Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Green switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, giving it a more substantial typing experience. Those looking for a lighter feel may prefer the Flame Red for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those wanting a stronger push may opt for the heavier Green switch. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, with the Flame Red offering a lighter touch overall compared to the heavier Green switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When it comes to pressing down on a key, users can expect a consistent travel distance with both switches, resulting in a similar typing experience. Whether you choose the Flame Red or the Green switch, you can rely on a 4mm travel distance for tactile feedback and key actuation.
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 Green 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. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a weighty smoothness and a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it approachable to most users, as it falls into a safe middle-ground zone of typing feel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Green clicky switch is unknown at this time.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a smooth, polished feel, the Flame Red linear switch would be a great choice. However, if the sound and feel of the Outemu Green clicky switch align with your preferences, you can expect similar results. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a visually appealing backlit RGB keyboard and enjoy a weightier smooth typing experience with a clacky sound profile, then the Flame Red would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Green switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Consider your priorities in terms of visuals, typing experience, and sound profile when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Flame Red and Green switches will depend on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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