TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are distinct differences that may cater to different preferences. The Flame Red is renowned for its stunning light diffuser, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a visually appealing backlit or RGB keyboard. In terms of typing experience, users can expect a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a short travel distance for swift actuation. It boasts a thocky sound, exceptionally smooth operation, and a light touch. While the Flame Red leans towards a 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished' feel, the Smoothie Silver does not fall into a specific category. Each switch has its own unique attributes that may appeal to different individuals based on their 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and Gateron Smoothie Silver both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Flame Red featuring nylon for both while the Smoothie Silver uses POM. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, POM provides an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted compared to nylon. Despite these differences, both materials offer a smooth typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
In terms of sound production, the Flame Red's nylon housing brings a rounder and duller sound when typing, emphasizing the bottom-out sound due to its impact on the overall switch sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM housing offers a more unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side, affecting both the bottom-out and key release sound. While both materials create captivating sound profiles, the choice between nylon and POM ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Flame Red and Smoothie Silver, it's clear that they each bring their own unique qualities to the typing experience. While the Flame Red's nylon top and bottom housings work together to create a deeper and fuller sound, the POM housings of the Smoothie Silver offer a more muted and pleasing sound. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the choice between nylon and POM will dictate the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. Ultimately, both switches result in a high-quality typing experience, each with its own distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. However, the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Flame Red offers a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the Smoothie Silver, making it more suitable for users who prefer a bit more resistance when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Flame Red being the slightly heavier option for those who like a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Flame Red linear switch from TTC has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Flame Red has a longer travel distance, offering a deeper key press experience, which some users may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varying travel distances, with the Flame Red providing a more traditional experience and the Smoothie Silver catering to those who prefer a shallower press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is known for its thocky sound, which provides a unique auditory experience. Both switches will provide a distinct sound profile that can be further influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel while typing. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, providing a lightning-fast actuation with each key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences that cater to the preferences of different users.
Overall, the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red is best suited for those who prefer a moderate sound and a weighty smoothness in typing, while the Smoothie Silver is ideal for those looking for a thocky sound and lightning-fast actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, but both are excellent options for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a visually stunning and backlit keyboard with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the Flame Red switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switch may be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, so make sure to select the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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