TTC Flame Red vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The Flame Red is widely recognized for its stunning light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who want a backlit, RGB keyboard with excellent visual appeal. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a sense of weighty smoothness accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovation, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. This switch provides a silky smooth typing experience without being overly polished. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Flame Red and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches are quite different. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The contrasting nature of these materials leads to distinct sound profiles. Typing on the Flame Red, with its nylon top housing, generates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounded tone. In comparison, the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance. Visually, the polycarbonate top housing is especially advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Flame Red and the Semi-Silent Linear employ nylon as the housing material. This results in a similar sound profile for both switches. The nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The duller and rounder tone produced by nylon enhances the typing experience. Therefore, in terms of sound, both switches offer comparable results in their bottom housing.
It is important to note that when a switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, each material contributes to specific aspects of the overall sound. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound generated when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in the Flame Red and the Semi-Silent Linear impacts the overall sound experience in both the actuation and release of keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unavailable, making it difficult to compare. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams of force, which is slightly lighter compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium.
Considering weight, the Flame Red provides a lighter typing experience with lower actuation and bottom out forces. This makes it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter switch that allows them to type for longer periods without excessive strain. It is especially suitable for those who use their keyboard extensively for work or extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a slightly heavier typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. This provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who prefer a stronger sensation while typing. It is a good choice for those who value a firmer switch and desire a tactile feedback that is more pronounced.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unknown, the Flame Red is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more effortless typing experience. The Semi-Silent Linear, with its higher bottom out force, offers a slightly heavier and more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired amount of force needed for a satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference between the two. The Flame Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm.
For those who prefer a more traditional feel and deeper keypress, the Flame Red switch would be the better option as it offers a longer travel distance. This added depth provides a more satisfying and substantial feel when typing or gaming.
On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance. This can be advantageous for gamers or individuals who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, meaning keystrokes can be registered more rapidly.
Both switches have their own benefits depending on individual preferences. If responsiveness is a top priority, opting for the Semi-Silent Linear with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, if a more substantial and satisfying keypress experience is desired, the Flame Red switch with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option.
In conclusion, while the Flame Red and Semi-Silent Linear switches have different travel distances, they cater to different preferences and needs. The Flame Red offers a longer travel distance for a more traditional and substantial feel, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear provides a shorter travel distance for faster response times. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that it produces a clacky sound when pressed, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use in various environments such as home or work settings. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provides a more subdued sound, dampened when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Similar to the Flame Red, it also has a moderate actuation force requirement and is versatile for different user levels and settings. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Flame Red and the Semi-Silent Linear switches provide a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel. They both fall within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of their characteristics. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. The Semi-Silent Linear switch also incorporates a snappy characteristic, making it super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs, giving the typing experience a more lively sensation. Moreover, it is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have their own subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red produces a clacky sound profile with a weighty smoothness, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more subdued sound with a silky smooth type feel. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and fall within the mild category for typing experience. They also share the polished characteristic, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your preferences, the Flame Red may be preferred for its more pronounced clacky sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear may be preferred for its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and overall smoother typing feel. It's worth noting that the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the sound and feel of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and want a switch that complements your backlit or RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the ideal choice. With its dazzling light diffuser, it adds a visually captivating element to your keyboard setup. Additionally, the Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile when typing, providing a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, if you value a more subdued sound and a silky smooth typing feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is the better option. Its innovative design allows for a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. Overall, the Flame Red switch is best suited for those who prioritize visuals and enjoy a weighty feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch is perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a silky smooth feel.
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