TTC Flame Red vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and KTT Phalaenopsis mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who want a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, offering a distinct feel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switches boast a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged sessions. The 50g tactile force in Phalaenopsis switches provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, enhancing each keystroke. While these general pointers help differentiate the two switches, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to ensure you can make the best switch choice for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and the KTT Phalaenopsis have contrasting housing materials that significantly impact the sound profiles of the switches. The Flame Red employs nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. In comparison, the Phalaenopsis incorporates polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. As polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it generates a clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for housing switches with RGB lighting.
However, if a switch's top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing becomes more prominent during keypresses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Alternatively, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, when comparing the Flame Red and Phalaenopsis, the different materials used in their bottom and top housings may provide varied typing experiences.
Overall, while the Flame Red and Phalaenopsis have distinct housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience through sound profiles. The nylon housing of the Flame Red emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, offering a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Phalaenopsis delivers a sharper and crisper sound, promoting a livelier and more precise typing feel. Despite their differences, the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience for both switches cannot be underestimated.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Flame Red is heavier with 54 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams.
Considering weight, some users may prefer the Flame Red's slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience, as it provides a stronger push feel. This can be advantageous for those who desire a tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, users who prefer a lighter touch may find the Phalaenopsis more desirable, as it has a lower actuation force. This can be ideal for prolonged typing sessions or for users who prefer a lighter keypress.
Overall, both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Flame Red leans towards medium-light force, providing a moderate tactile experience, while the Phalaenopsis falls into the light force category, emphasizing a lighter touch. By considering these factors, individuals can make an informed decision about which switch suits their specific typing preferences, whether they lean towards a heavier or lighter actuation force.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results and give the user a similar tactile 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses, whether you're a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as being bassy and thocky. The bassy nature of the switch gives it a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the thocky characteristic means that it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Overall, the Flame Red offers a moderate and neutral sound, while the Phalaenopsis provides a deeper and more satisfying sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. Being a mild switch, it provides a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users, as its qualities fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as a stepped switch. This means that it has a tactile feel that feels like it has two stages. Unlike hypertactile switches that provide a big bump throughout the entire keystroke, stepped switches have a more mild feel, with the ability to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This tactile bump adds to the overall tactile typing experience of the Phalaenopsis switch.
In conclusion, the Flame Red and Phalaenopsis switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, with a neutral sound and a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis offers a delightful typing experience with effortless typing and minimized finger fatigue, thanks to its light actuation force and discernible tactile bump. It also provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, adding depth and satisfaction to each keystroke. Overall, users can expect different experiences with each switch, choosing the one that aligns with their preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and enjoy a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the way to go. These switches are particularly well-suited for backlit and RGB keyboards due to their dazzling light diffuser. On the other hand, if effortless typing and minimal finger fatigue are important to you, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is the better choice. These switches provide a delightful typing experience with their light actuation force of 37g and satisfying tactile bump of 50g. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile, the Flame Red is the one for you, while the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound. As for the feel, the Flame Red offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis has a stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for visuals, typing experience, sound, and feel.
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