TTC Flame Red vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Semi Mute. The Flame Red switch is widely known for its stunning light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who want to showcase a backlit, RGB keyboard. In addition to its visual appeal, these linear switches offer a weighty smoothness and a satisfying clacky sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch, despite its name, operates silently and is ideal for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment. These linear switches feature advanced dampening technology, providing a comfortable and gratifying typing experience. Categorized as buttery, mild, muted, and neutral, the Semi Mute switches offer a different tactile sensation compared to the Flame Red. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Semi Mute switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and characteristics. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate works well for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while nylon does not possess this property.

Similarly, the differences between the nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings of the Flame Red and Semi Mute switches impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Flame Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when you press down on a key. The softer nature of nylon allows for more absorption of sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during the bottom-out phase. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound upon pressing a key. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound during bottom-out.

When it comes to the impact on the sound when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role. As nylon creates a duller and rounder sound profile, the Flame Red's nylon top housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when you let go of a key. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute will result in a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing material in the top housing can influence the overall sound experience of a switch.

In summary, the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and KTT Semi Mute switches present contrasting attributes that affect the sound and feel of the switches. While the Flame Red's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, the polycarbonate housing of the Semi Mute creates a sharper and crisper sound. The choice of top and bottom housings influences different aspects of the switch's sound and feel, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. However, if the top and bottom housings are the same for both switches, you can expect similar results in terms of the sound profiles and characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Flame Red switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Semi Mute switch's 43 grams, making it slightly lighter to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Flame Red requires a force of 54 grams while the Semi Mute requires a slightly heavier force of 58 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of bottom out force.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Flame Red switch may be more suitable, as it has a slightly lower actuation force. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or marathon gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on the fingers over time. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel might opt for the Semi Mute switch with its slightly heavier actuation force. This provides a stronger push feel and can enhance the tactile feedback during typing.

It's important to note that while the Flame Red and Semi Mute switches have slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces, they both fall within the medium category. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feel and typing experience between the two switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or slightly heavier keystroke feel.

Travel distance

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, indicating that both switches require the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, users can expect a similar tactile experience and feedback when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch. Whether typing or gaming, users will enjoy consistent and reliable performance from both the Flame Red and Semi Mute switches thanks to their identical travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Flame Red switch provides a clacky sound profile, which adds a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. This makes it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound when typing. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch lives up to its name by offering a much quieter experience. Despite being completely silent, these switches still provide a gratifying typing feel. The advanced dampening technology used in the Semi Mute switch ensures that the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards is minimized, making it ideal for those who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night sessions. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness when typing. Its qualities lie in a safe middle-ground zone, providing a more gentle typing experience without being too pronounced. Additionally, the Flame Red switch is described as having a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is described as providing a buttery feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, where typing feels effortless and uniform. Similar to the Flame Red switch, the Semi Mute also falls into the mild category, providing an approachable typing experience that suits most individuals.

In conclusion, the Flame Red and Semi Mute switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a weighty smoothness when typing, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch prioritizes a noise-free environment and offers a completely silent operation. It provides a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with its buttery smoothness. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing needs, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences. It is worth mentioning that while these switches may differ in certain aspects, the descriptions of mild and neutral characteristics suggest that users can expect similar results in terms of comfort and approachability when typing on either switch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you prioritize having a visually stunning keyboard that is great for showcasing RGB lighting, then the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the clear choice for you. With its dazzling light diffuser and weighty smoothness, typing on these switches will provide a satisfying tactile experience. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a moderate actuation force, the Flame Red is suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any environment.

On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, then the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the ideal option. Despite its name, these switches are completely silent and provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. With their muted sound profile and moderate actuation force, the Semi Mute switches are perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Semi Mute switches depends on your specific preferences and needs. Consider whether visual aesthetics and RGB lighting are important to you, or if you prioritize a noise-free environment. Evaluate your desired sound profile and actuation force to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. By taking these factors into account, you can select the switch that best suits your individual requirements.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more