TTC Flame Red vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options available on the market, each with their own unique characteristics and advantages. Two popular linear switches that stand out from the crowd are the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Piano. The Flame Red is widely recognized for its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prioritize a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Piano is renowned for its proprietary material blend, which ensures a pleasant typing experience. Users can expect a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature while typing on these switches. While these generalities offer a glimpse into the key features of each switch, it is essential to delve deeper to determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and Durock Piano switches differ in their housing materials, with the Flame Red featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend for both the top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Flame Red is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the exact details of the POM blend used in the Piano switches are unknown, but it is said to offer a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile.
Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing, which is the same material for both switches, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, when pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the nylon and POM blend will create a similar impact on the overall sound and feel during the keypress.
However, where the switches diverge is in the contribution of the top housing material. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red is recognized for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound upon key release. Conversely, the proprietary POM blend used in the Piano switches offers its own unique satisfying and deep sound profile when releasing a key. Therefore, users may experience slightly different sound characteristics depending on the switch they choose.
In summary, while the TTC Flame Red and Durock Piano switches share similarities in terms of the impact their bottom housing has on the keypress sound and feel, the differences lie in the top housing. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red provides a distinct deep and full sound upon key release, while the proprietary POM blend top housing of the Piano offers its own uniquely satisfying sound profile. So although there are similarities, each switch provides a slightly different auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch for triggering a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Piano switch is unavailable, leaving uncertainty around the force required to initiate a keystroke. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams of pressure to fully press down, while the Piano switch demands a heavier force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Piano switch medium-heavy in terms of bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Flame Red switch, which allows for longer periods of comfortable typing for tasks such as work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and forceful typing sensation may favor the Piano switch, as it offers a heavier push feel. Depending on personal preference, either switch can provide the desired typing experience for users, though the Flame Red is lighter overall, whereas the Piano switch leans towards being heavier in terms of bottoming out.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical for both switches. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and key press experience from both switches. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Piano linear switches.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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
The Flame Red switch is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who want to have a backlit, RGB keyboard. When typing on these switches, users will experience a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switches are renowned for their proprietary material blend, which results in a pleasant typing experience. Users will feel a gliding push when using these switches and enjoy a deep, creamy sound signature.
In terms of sound, the Flame Red switch can be described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use the switches at home or work. On the other hand, the Piano switch is classified as bassy. It offers a deep and rich sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Flame Red switch is mild. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Flame Red switch will be approachable to most users, as its qualities fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Flame Red switch is also described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. The materials used and/or factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In contrast, the Piano switch is frictionless and silky. These switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. They enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel and reduce resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red and Durock Piano switches have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red switch provides a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a visually appealing backlit keyboard. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch offers a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature, providing a pleasant typing experience. Although they have different sound and feel characteristics, users can expect similar results in terms of a moderate actuation force requirement and a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Flame Red and Piano switches will depend on personal preferences for visuals, sound, and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and want to showcase your backlit or RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Not only does it offer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, but its dazzling light diffuser adds an extra touch of visual appeal. On the other hand, if you value a pleasant typing experience with a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano linear switch is the one to go for. Its proprietary material blend sets it apart and provides a unique typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences for visuals, sound, and feel. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience or a bassy sound profile with a frictionless, silky feel, both switches offer their own distinct advantages. Take these factors into consideration when making your selection, and you'll find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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