TTC Flame Red vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for enthusiasts are the TTC Flame Red and the Kailh Plum. While both switches offer a unique typing experience, they have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red is widely recognized for its stunning light diffuser, making it the go-to choice for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard setup. With a smooth and weighty feel, accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound profile, typing on Flame Reds is a delight. On the other hand, the Plum switches provide a different experience. Despite their hefty nature, they offer a subtle tactile bump, setting them apart from other tactile switches that typically prioritize a strong tactility and weightiness. Additionally, the Plum switches have a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. Now, while these generalities may give you an idea of which switch might suit you best, let's dive deeper into their specific features and characteristics to help you make the most informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
The TTC Flame Red and the Kailh Plum switches differ in their housing materials, with the Flame Red featuring a nylon top housing and the Plum featuring a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Plum creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Flame Red and the Plum switches utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. As the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing will be prominent in both the Flame Red and the Plum switches.
When pressing down on either the Flame Red or the Plum switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable. The bottom housing material determines the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, creating a significant impact on the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Flame Red and the Plum switches differ in their top housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, one noticeable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flame Red switch boasts an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the exact actuation force of the Plum switch is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Plum switch requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke and provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Weight-conscious individuals may prefer the Flame Red switch as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces enable longer typing sessions, making it well-suited for work or extended gaming sessions. However, those seeking a more forceful typing feel may gravitate towards the Plum switch for a more substantial and satisfying keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Flame Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Flame Red's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the realm of the most traditional distances, providing a familiar and comfortable feel. On the other hand, the Plum's 3.6mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it suitable for individuals who prioritize faster response times, particularly gamers. The shorter travel distance allows for quick keystrokes, enhancing responsiveness. However, it's worth noting that some may find the shorter travel distance of the Plum switch too abrupt, lacking the depth they desire. In this case, opting for the Flame Red switch with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences, with the Flame Red offering a traditional and deeper experience, while the Plum provides a quicker and more responsive feel.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
The Flame Red switch is best known for its visually appealing light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who want a backlit, RGB keyboard. When typing on these switches, users can expect a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a unique experience with its hefty feel and less pronounced tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum switch separates weightiness from tactility, resulting in a typing experience that stands out. The sound profile of the Flame Red switch is described as neutral, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for most users. Similarly, the Plum switch also falls into the neutral category, offering a moderate sound profile that is enjoyable. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. As for the feel, the Flame Red switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, it is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum switch is also categorized as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within the safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Plum switch is described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Flame Red switch provides a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the Plum switch offers a hefty feel and a less pronounced tactile bump. Both switches are categorized as neutral in terms of sound, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for most users. In terms of feel, they are both described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Flame Red switch is further enhanced with its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer their own distinctive characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences and typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, to decide between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value visual appeal and enjoy backlighting on your keyboard, the Flame Reds with their dazzling light diffuser are the perfect choice. They offer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique tactile experience that is both hefty and lacks a pronounced tactile bump, the Plums are the way to go. The sound profile of both switches is described as neutral, making them suitable for various purposes. However, if you prefer a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction, the Flame Reds offer a sleek and refined finish. On the other hand, the Plums provide a mild typing experience with a stepped feel, adding a subtle pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and priorities for your mechanical keyboard.
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