TTC Flame Red vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red stands out for its dazzling light diffuser, making it perfect for those who prioritize a visually appealing, backlit RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 is renowned for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision. This makes it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals seeking a versatile typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Sky V3, we can see that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on switches from both keyboards will produce a similar deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. However, since the Flame Red uses a polycarbonate top housing, it will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the rounder sound produced by the nylon housing in the Sky V3. This contrast in sound profiles can be attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Flame Red.
Moving on to the top housing, the TTC Flame Red features a polycarbonate material while the Dareu Sky V3 utilizes nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the Flame Red creates a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially if RGB lighting is involved due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing in the Sky V3 will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its bottom housing. This difference in top housing material will ultimately affect the overall typing experience, with the Flame Red providing a crisper sound upon key release compared to the rounder sound of the Sky V3.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it's important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of a switch will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the combination of nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing in the Flame Red will provide a unique typing experience, blending the deep and full sound of nylon with the crispness of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Sky V3 with nylon top and bottom housings will deliver a consistent and round sound profile throughout the typing process.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we can see some differences. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Flame Red slightly heavier than the Sky V3 when it comes to the bottom out force. The Flame Red will provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Sky V3 may offer a lighter typing feel with its lower actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they both offer the same level of keypress feedback and actuation force. Users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch. The travel distance of 4 mm on both switches ensures that the keypress feels responsive and provides a satisfying typing experience. Overall, whether using the TTC Flame Red or the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and typing 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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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, both the TTC Flame Red and Dareu Sky V3 switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The Flame Red provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, while the Sky V3 offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, both switches are described as offering a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. The Flame Red is noted for its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Sky V3 provides a gentle typing experience without any specific mention of a polished finish. These qualities ensure a comfortable typing experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Overall, both the TTC Flame Red and Dareu Sky V3 switches offer neutral sound profiles and mild typing experiences, making them versatile options for a variety of users. While the Flame Red is best known for its dazzling light diffuser and clacky sound profile, the Sky V3 stands out for its balance of comfort and precision. Whether you prefer a more weighty feel or a subdued sound, both switches provide quality options for your mechanical keyboard needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a visually striking backlit keyboard with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the Flame Red switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature, a medium-light weight, and a balance between comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, your decision should be based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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