TTC Flame Red vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Perky can significantly impact your typing experience, depending on your preferences. The TTC Flame Red is celebrated not only for its impressive performance but also for its striking visual appeal, featuring a dazzling light diffuser that makes it a fantastic choice for backlit, RGB keyboards. When typing on these switches, you'll experience a weighty smoothness paired with a satisfying clacky sound profile, making it ideal for users who enjoy a responsive and dynamic feel. On the other hand, HMX Perky switches showcase a softer, glittery nylon housing that delivers a more condensed typing experience thanks to their shorter travel distance. This switch is characterized as clacky and silky, providing a typing feel that is both neutral and deeply satisfying. While both switches are linear and offer unique qualities tailored to different types of users, they cater to varying aesthetic and tactile 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
43g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Flame Red and HMX Perky switches utilize nylon as their primary housing material for both the top and bottom components. This shared choice indicates that both switches are designed to produce a similar auditory experience while typing. The nylon material, known for being a softer plastic compared to other options, tends to absorb sound more effectively and thereby contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Users can expect a duller and rounder sound when actuating keys on either switch, which enhances the overall typing experience by providing a less harsh auditory feedback compared to switches made from harder materials.
Despite the shared materials, the sound and tactile feedback feel might also hinge on other unique features specific to each switch, such as the design of the internal components and the spring mechanism. However, since both switches employ nylon for both the top and bottom housings, any deviations in sound or feel would likely stem from these additional factors rather than the basic material itself. In this way, even if the design philosophies of the Flame Red and Perky vary, their nylon housings set the stage for a comparable performance regarding the auditory characteristics attributed to keypresses.
When comparing the impact of these materials in practice, it's crucial to acknowledge that the performance of each switch isn't solely derived from the top and bottom housings but also from the interaction of these components. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that the typing experience can differ based on the design of the internal mechanisms as well. However, since both the TTC Flame Red and HMX Perky rely on nylon for their housings, users can anticipate a cohesive sound profile, allowing for a pleasurable and consistent experience across both types of switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their unique characteristics. The Flame Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Perky has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, defining it as a light switch. This means that the Perky is overall the lighter option, making it potentially more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons, as less force is needed for activation. The Flame Red, being heavier, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feedback from their keystrokes, providing a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches aim to deliver smooth linear feedback, those who favor a lighter touch will likely gravitate toward the HMX Perky, whereas the TTC Flame Red could be the better choice for those seeking a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This discrepancy in travel distance may influence user experience significantly. The Flame Red's 4 mm distance aligns with the traditional standard, providing a more substantial depth that is preferred by those who favor a hearty feel when pressing down on keys. Conversely, the Perky's shorter 3.4 mm travel distance caters to gamers or users looking for quicker responsiveness, as it allows for faster actuation. Consequently, those who enjoy a more tactile and deliberate keystroke should opt for the Flame Red, whereas users prioritizing speed and quick key presses may find the Perky more appealing. Overall, the TTC Flame Red is the longer option, and the HMX Perky is the shorter one, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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 considering the sound profiles of the TTC Flame Red and HMX Perky linear switches, both offer unique auditory experiences. The Flame Red switch is characterized by a neutral sound, making it suitable for various environments, whether that's at home or in an office setting. This balanced audio profile presents a moderate actuation force and is approachable for users of all levels. On the other hand, the Perky linear switch emits a distinctly clacky sound, praised for its sharp and snappy auditory feedback. Its crisp, bright tones bring a more lively element to typing, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound produced by both switches can be influenced by other factors like the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps.
In terms of tactile feel, the Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. Users can expect a weighty smoothness that echoes a gentle touch, making it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort is prioritized. The polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a pleasant experience when each key is pressed. Conversely, the HMX Perky switch also boasts a polished feel but takes it a step further with its silky attributes. Users will find that the silky quality enhances the overall typing smoothness, minimizing resistance and creating a deeply satisfying experience. While both switches offer polished finishes, the Perky's additional silky feature may appeal more to those seeking extraordinary smoothness.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red and HMX Perky linear switches possess commendable quality, yet they cater to slightly different preferences regarding sound and feel. The Flame Red shines in settings where a neutral sound profile is advantageous, combining mild tactile characteristics with a weighty smoothness. Conversely, the Perky offers a louder, more lively clacky sound, complemented by a silky-smooth typing experience. Ultimately, while they share qualities of polish and smoothness, choosing between them will depend on whether you prefer a more subdued auditory feedback or a vibrant, engaging typing sound.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Perky linear switches, your personal preferences and intended use will guide your decision. If you value a more weighty typing experience with a bottom-out force of 54 grams, the Flame Red switch is an excellent choice, especially for those who appreciate a clacky sound profile, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing. The Flame Red is particularly suited for RGB enthusiasts due to its visually stunning light diffuser, making it an ideal option for vibrant backlit keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel as you type, with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the HMX Perky will cater to your needs. Its shorter travel distance ensures a condensed and satisfying typing experience, and its silky smoothness combined with a polished finish minimizes resistance for effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, you should choose the Flame Red when you're looking for a more traditional and tactile engagement with a crisp sound, while the Perky is perfect for users seeking a seamless and quieter typing experience.
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