TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Milk Blue 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 Milk Blue offer distinct experiences for users. The flame red stands out with its visually striking light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prioritize a vibrant backlit or RGB keyboard setup. Known for its weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, this linear switch falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Milk Blue doesn't have any standout visual features but excels in providing a satisfying clicky typing experience. Categorized as a tactile switch, this switch offers a different tactile and auditory experience compared to the Flame Red. 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
N/A
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 Milk Blue, it is evident that they each offer distinctive sound profiles due to their unique properties. The Flame Red, with its nylon top housing, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate provides a clear and resonant sound quality. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Flame Red and Milk Blue switches, both feature nylon housing which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a similar duller and rounder sound quality for both switches. This consistency in bottom housing material highlights the importance of the bottom-out sound and feel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the Flame Red and Milk Blue switches illustrate the significant impact that material choice can have on the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Flame Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper sound compared to the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing, both switches share a similar sound quality in their nylon bottom housing. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a sharper and crisper sound, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing allows for customization based on individual preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Flame Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams, making the Flame Red the lighter option of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Flame Red due to its lower actuation force. In contrast, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Milk Blue with its slightly heavier actuation force. 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 Milk Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two, they both offer the same tactile feedback and actuation feel despite their different switch types. The similar travel distance ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. This means that whether you opt for the TTC Flame Red linear switch or the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, you can expect to have a similar feel when pressing down on the keys.
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 Milk 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound description available. However, 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.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Flame Red is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. These qualities place the Flame Red in a safe middle-ground zone that will be approachable to most users. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description available for the Outemu Milk Blue switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a polished, smooth feel, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be a great choice. While specific information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is not available, it is important to consider factors such as personal preference and the overall keyboard setup when making a decision. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize a visually stunning and smooth typing experience with a moderate actuation force in a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Red may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky sound profile and a unique typing experience, the Milk Blue could be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and needs in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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