TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the tTC Flame Red and the outemu Spring Breeze mechanical keyboard switches, one immediate visual difference stands out: the flame red's dazzling light diffuser, making it the top choice for those who prefer backlit, RGB keyboards. The flame red offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, fitting into the 'neutral', 'mild', 'polished' category. On the other hand, the spring breeze lacks a standout feature but falls under a different category. When considering which switch to choose, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of each based on your personal preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
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
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches both utilize nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with a noticeable sound profile that is characteristic of nylon housing materials. The similarity in housing materials means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, while the housing materials are the same for both switches, the design and structure of the top and bottom housings can still impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the nylon housing will be distributed differently between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. Users may notice differences in sound and feel based on how the nylon housing is utilized in each switch. Despite the similar housing material, these design differences can lead to unique typing experiences for each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze may come down to individual preferences in sound and feel. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile characteristic of nylon housing materials, but the distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom housings can result in subtle differences in typing experience. Users looking for a switch with a specific bottom-out sound or key release sound may find that one of these switches better suits their preferences. It is important to consider how the housing materials and design impact the overall typing experience when choosing between the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch both fall into the medium-light category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Flame Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Spring Breeze's 40 grams, but the bottom out force of the Flame Red at 54 grams is lighter than the Spring Breeze's 55 grams. This means that the Spring Breeze requires a lighter initial push to register a keystroke, but a slightly heavier force is needed to fully press the key down. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of weight, making them suitable for users who prefer a medium-light feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent distance of travel from top to bottom. The equal travel distance ensures that you will experience a similar tactile feel and response while typing or gaming with either switch. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and satisfying key press experience due to their identical travel distances.
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 Spring Breeze 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 linear switch offers a neutral profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The Spring Breeze clicky switch, on the other hand, does not have a specific sound description provided. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switch provides a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined feel. This switch offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users due to its middle-ground characteristics. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description available for the Spring Breeze switch.
Overall, the Flame Red linear switch stands out for its visually striking light diffuser, making it ideal for backlit, RGB keyboards. It also offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, along with a mild and polished feel that appeals to a wide range of users. While there is limited information available on the Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is important to consider all factors, including sound, feel, and visual appeal, when choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, and selecting between them will depend on your personal preferences and typing requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider your priorities. If you value a visually striking keyboard with vibrant backlighting and prefer a smooth, weighty typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a clicky sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement, the Spring Breeze clicky switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and visual customization when selecting between these two switches.