TTC Flame Red vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flame Red and the Huano Sakura are two excellent linear options that cater to different preferences and experiences. The Flame Red switch stands out not only for its smooth and weighty keypress but also for its stunning light diffuser, making it a top choice for gamers and typists alike who want their keyboard to shine bright with vibrant RGB lighting. Its clacky sound profile adds a satisfying acoustic layer, providing an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch excels in offering a feather-light touch that makes it particularly suitable for long typing sessions, thanks to its medium acoustics that create a balance between sound and feel. While the Flame Red switches might appeal to those who appreciate a pronounced auditory experience along with their aesthetics, the Sakura switches cater to those who prioritize comfort and reduced finger fatigue. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and Huano Sakura switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which leads to differing auditory experiences. The Flame Red's housing is made from nylon, a classic choice known for its ability to absorb sound, lending the switches a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic results from the softer nature of nylon, which dampens sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, creating a sound that is both subdued and rounded. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing, renowned for its smoothness and unique sound profile. The POK material produces a clackier and more pronounced sound due to its relatively high coefficient of friction, which encourages a crisp actuation compared to the softer, subdued sounds of nylon.
While the top housings of the two switches differ significantly, both the TTC Flame Red and Huano Sakura share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This similarity in bottom housing means that both switches will evoke a fuller and deeper acoustic response during typing, particularly when bottoming out. The properties of nylon create a cushioning effect that absorbs sound effectively, leading to a consistent bottom-out feel across both switches. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housing materials, users can expect a similar tactile and auditory experience with respect to the bottom housing's influence on sound and feel.
In a practical sense, the unique properties of each switch material influence the overall typing experience, as the top housing's material affects the sound released upon key release while the bottom housing governs the sound upon actuation. In the case of the TTC Flame Red, the nylon top may lead to a softer auditory experience when a key is released, while the Huano Sakura's POK housing contributes to a sharper acoustic profile. However, with both switches featuring nylon bottoms, the impact of the bottom housing will be predominant in shaping the overall sound and feel, ensuring that both switches maintain a level of acoustic similarity. Ultimately, users can enjoy the distinctive characters of each switch while also finding common ground in the qualities imparted by the shared nylon material in their bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Flame Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, which positions it as a medium-light option. In contrast, the Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, characterizing it as a light switch. Consequently, users may find the Sakura switch more comfortable for extended typing sessions, allowing for less fatigue. Meanwhile, those who appreciate a more substantial feel may prefer the heavier Flame Red. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the Flame Red is heavier than the Sakura, catering to different preferences for typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the Flame Red measures at 4 mm, while the Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This distinction means that users who opt for the Flame Red will experience a more pronounced keypress, allowing for a hearty depth that some may prefer for tactile feedback. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Sakura could appeal to gamers looking for quick response times, making it a more suitable choice for fast-paced gameplay. Consequently, if you favor a more abrupt keystroke, the Sakura is the better option, while those who enjoy a fuller keypress will likely gravitate towards the Flame Red.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch stands out with its clacky sound profile, making it an engaging choice for users who appreciate audible feedback while typing. This neutral sound characteristic appeals to a wide range of typists, allowing for versatility whether used in a home or office setting. The sound experience is influenced by external factors like the keyboard build and keycap material, but the inherent qualities of the Flame Red suggest a well-rounded acoustic environment. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch offers medium acoustics, which are generally softer and more muted compared to the Flame Red, making it ideal for long typing sessions without being overly distracting. However, further specifics regarding the exact sound of the Sakura switch remain unclear.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red provides a unique experience characterized by a weighty smoothness, which is reflected in its mild yet polished typing action. The mild descriptor indicates that the switch is approachable for most users, delivering a balanced and pleasant touch experience without any harsh characteristics. The polished nature of the switch ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, which can be a significant advantage for extended typing sessions. The Huano Sakura, while also a linear switch, is noted for its feather-light touch, offering a different typing sensation that may cater better to those who prefer less resistance. However, the specific feel characteristics of the Sakura switch are not detailed here, leaving some uncertainty about how it compares to the Flame Red in terms of smoothness and response.
In summary, the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch each have their distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Flame Red excels in sound and feel, providing a clackier sound profile and a smooth typing experience that many find appealing, especially with RGB setups due to its impressive visual design. The Sakura, while offering a softer sound and feather-light touch, may fit the needs of users looking for something less audible during long typing sessions. Ultimately, while both switches present unique attributes, the choice between them will depend on what qualities the user values most in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Flame Red and Huano Sakura linear switches, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a medium-light switch that provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, especially in a visually appealing RGB setup, the Flame Red is an excellent choice. Its neutral sound and mild feel make it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike, making it a versatile option for use at home or work. On the other hand, if you're seeking a lighter touch for long typing sessions where comfort is key, the Huano Sakura will serve you well with its feather-light actuation force and medium acoustics. The Sakura switch is ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience without sacrificing sound quality. In the end, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize aesthetics and a slightly more robust feel with the Flame Red or comfort and ease of use with the Sakura.
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