TTC Flame Red vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Akko Rosewood stand out as two exemplary linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red switches are not only celebrated for their smooth, weighty feel and moderate clackiness but also for their striking aesthetics, featuring an impressive light diffuser that enhances any backlit or RGB keyboard setup. These switches excel in providing a visually stunning and tactile experience for typists and gamers alike. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood switches shine with their gratifying thocky sound, enhanced by a factory-applied lubricant that offers a plush, velvety typing experience right out of the box. While the Flame Reds prioritize a polished aesthetic with a mildly clacky profile, the Rosewoods focus on delivering a rich auditory feedback that many users find appealing. Ultimately, both switches possess distinctive qualities that may sway your decision depending on your typing style and visual 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

TTC Flame Red Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Flame Red and Akko Rosewood share a notable similarity in their construction, as both switches feature nylon as the primary material for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is renowned for its acoustic properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when the switches are activated. This is due to nylon's relatively softer composition compared to harder plastics such as ABS or polycarbonate. As a result, users of both switches can expect a sound experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder quality, making them ideal for those who appreciate a more subdued auditory feedback while typing.

In both cases, the use of nylon for the top and bottom housings plays a significant role in how each switch performs in terms of sound and feel. Because the bottom housing is responsible for the bottom-out sound, users of both the TTC Flame Red and Akko Rosewood will find that the impact of each switch is cushioned, leading to a more pleasant typing experience. Similarly, the top housing contributes to the sound profile upon releasing the key, meaning that each switch will deliver consistent auditory characteristics upon both pressing and releasing, reinforcing the overall typing experience with a sense of harmony in acoustics.

Ultimately, while exploring the differences between the TTC Flame Red and Akko Rosewood, it is clear that their shared use of nylon for both housings will yield very similar results in performance. The combined qualities of both top and bottom housings would lead to an overall experience that emphasizes depth and sound absorption, allowing users to enjoy a typing experience that minimizes harshness and maximizes comfort. Whether one chooses the Flame Red or the Rosewood, both switches cater to those seeking a plush and auditory-friendly keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. 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 Rosewood has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. This disparity implies that users who favor a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Flame Red switch due to its heavier forces, while those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions might find the Rosewood more comfortable. Ultimately, while both switches function similarly, the Rosewood offers a gentler keystroke, making it ideal for prolonged use, whereas the Flame Red provides a firmer feel for those who appreciate a stronger push.

Travel distance

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both share the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when you press down on a key, you will experience an equal amount of travel in both switches. This equivalency ensures that users can expect similar keypress feedback and responsiveness, allowing for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. In this case, there is no difference in travel distance; both switches provide the same performance in this aspect.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Flame Red switches present a neutral auditory profile, striking a balance that makes them suitable for a wide range of environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. This moderate sound level allows for both focused typing without distraction and the ability to enjoy the rhythmic clicks that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switches offer a distinctly different auditory experience, characterized by a deep, satisfying thock due to their factory-applied lubrication. This richer sound profile not only enhances the experience of typing but also provides a more tactile feedback that many users find rewarding, particularly in a setting where sound can accentuate the feel of each keystroke.

When considering the feel of each switch, the Flame Red switches shine with their mild and polished characteristics. The mildness offers an approachable typing experience that is pleasant for both beginners and seasoned typists, making it a versatile choice. The polished nature of these switches contributes to a smooth key travel that minimizes friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the feel of the Rosewood switches remains largely uncharacterized in the given information, but one can infer from their sound profile that they likely possess a certain degree of tactile satisfaction when pressed. However, specifics about their smoothness or any unique textured qualities remain unknown.

In conclusion, while the TTC Flame Red and Akko Rosewood switches differ in sound, with the Flame Reds providing a neutral tone and the Rosewoods delivering a deeper thock, they both serve distinct preferences among typists. The Flame Red’s mild and polished feel contrasts with the unspecified tactile sensations of the Rosewood switches. Depending on your priority—whether you desire a more versatile sound and feel or are seeking a unique auditory profile—the choice between these two switches will cater to different typing experiences. Ultimately, either option can lead to enjoyable typing sessions, with the final outcome also influenced by your choice of keyboard, keycaps, and personal typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences regarding sound, feel, and use case. If you prioritize a slightly firmer feel with a bottom-out force of 54 grams and enjoy a backlit or RGB keyboard, the Flame Red is an excellent choice. Its visually appealing light diffuser, mild and polished typing experience, and clacky sound make it suitable for both working and gaming environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch, at 50 grams, that provides a more pronounced acoustic feedback through its thocky sound profile, the Rosewood may be the better option for you. This switch shines in scenarios where you want a deep, satisfying typing experience, particularly if you're looking for a low-effort keystroke combined with a very pleasing auditory response. Consider where and how you will primarily be using your keyboard, as this will guide you toward the switch that aligns best with your needs.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more