TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red, a linear switch, to the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, it's important to note some key differences. The Flame Red is best known for its stunning light diffuser, making it ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics in their mechanical keyboards, especially if they have RGB backlighting. When typing on the Flame Reds, users experience a smooth and weighty feel accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf does not have any standout features in terms of visuals, but it offers a tactile typing experience. This switch is categorized as tactile, providing feedback that many typists prefer. However, let's dive in a bit deeper to explore the nuances of each switch beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
Both the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This commonality between the two switches means that users can expect similar acoustic experiences when using either switch, with the nylon material playing a significant role in shaping the overall typing sound.
However, despite sharing the same housing material, the Flame Red and Maple Leaf switches may differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. If these components vary between the two switches, the qualities of the nylon material will be distributed differently throughout the switch. The bottom housing is more influential on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the specific design of the switch can affect the overall typing experience, even when utilizing the same housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing material can greatly impact the typing experience and sound profile of a switch. Both the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches demonstrate the benefits of using nylon as a housing material, with its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound when typing. While the top and bottom housings may vary in their effects on the overall sound, the use of nylon ensures that users can enjoy a similar typing experience with either switch. By understanding how different housing materials can influence sound and feel, users can make informed choices when selecting switches for their keyboard setups.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Flame Red is the lighter of the two. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. In contrast, the Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it the heavier option of the two with a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a softer typing experience and longer typing sessions, the Flame Red may be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Maple Leaf switch for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. In either case, both switches offer a distinct typing feel that caters to different preferences, providing a diverse range of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. The Flame Red switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional feel, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking a quicker response time, particularly gamers. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences, so selecting the appropriate switch will depend on whether you prefer a longer, more deliberate key press or a shorter, more rapid one. Ultimately, both switches offer unique experiences, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of which one they choose.
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 Maple Leaf 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 switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. This switch provides a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, making it versatile for various typing environments. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Maple Leaf switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Flame Red switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Maple Leaf switch's feel characteristics are unspecified, so it is challenging to draw a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of feel.
Overall, the Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red switch is best known for its light diffuser and smooth, weighty typing experience with a clacky sound profile, while information about the Maple Leaf switch is limited. If you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and polished feel, the Flame Red switch would be a good choice. However, if more information about the Maple Leaf switch becomes available, a more accurate comparison could be made. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize visual aesthetics and prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Red would be the ideal choice for you. The smoother and weightier typing experience, along with the clacky sound profile, make it a suitable option for a variety of users. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a tactile feedback, the Maple Leaf switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
