TTC Flame Red vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the SP-Star Duck are two popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Flame Red is a linear switch that stands out for its visually appealing feature - a dazzling light diffuser, making it ideal for those who want a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the Duck switches are a great option. They offer a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. Both switches fall under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', though the Duck switches add the descriptor 'Buttery' to their profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the SP-Star Duck, namely nylon and polycarbonate, offer distinct differences in sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The Flame Red's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. Conversely, the Duck's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for more clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the traslucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Flame Red and the Duck utilize nylon and polycarbonate respectively. Similar to the top housing, the Flame Red's nylon bottom housing enhances the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with softer plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck creates a sharper and crisper sound, emphasizing higher frequencies. Both materials offer their unique qualities to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
It is important to note that the nylon and polycarbonate materials bring their respective qualities to switches differently depending on their placement. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's attributes are more noticeable, influencing the overall bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing exerts more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, in switches where the top and bottom housings differ, users can expect a split representation of the material's qualities throughout the typing experience.
In summary, while the TTC Flame Red and the SP-Star Duck differ in their housing materials, they both offer distinct advantages. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red provides a deeper, fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Similarly, the nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the former emphasizing depth and roundness, and the latter delivering crispness and clarity. Regardless of the specific housing material, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Duck's actuation force is unavailable, meaning its force requirement to trigger a keystroke is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams of pressure, whereas the Duck requires slightly more at 58 grams. This makes the Flame Red lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Duck.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer periods of typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, others may desire a heavier force to provide a more substantial typing experience. Both the Flame Red and the Duck cater to these preferences due to their medium-light actuation forces. While the Flame Red is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Duck, the force variation is not significant enough to drastically alter the typing experience. Therefore, those seeking similar results can expect comparable performances from both switches.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they both produce a moderate level of sound without being too loud or too soft. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. As such, both switches can be suitable for various purposes and users, whether they are beginners or advanced keyboard enthusiasts, and whether they are using the switches at home or in a work environment.
In terms of feel, both the Flame Red and the Duck switches offer a mild and gentle typing experience. This means that they provide a comfortable and approachable feel for most users, as the characteristics of these switches fall within a safe and middle-ground range. Additionally, both switches are described as being polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The polished nature of these switches can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubrication. Overall, users can expect a pleasant and effortless typing sensation with either the Flame Red or the Duck switches.
Considering all available information, it is evident that both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer desirable subjective qualities for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Flame Red switch stands out for its dazzling light diffuser, making it ideal for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Duck switch provides a more subtle tactile typing experience. Both switches produce a clean and crispy sound profile, and their mild feel with a polished finish ensures a smooth and comfortable typing experience. Whether one chooses the Flame Red or the Duck switch, they can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, as both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and enjoy a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you, especially if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience and appreciate a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be the perfect fit. In terms of sound, both switches are described as neutral, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you'll be using them at home or work. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Duck switch also provides a buttery sensation, resulting in a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for visuals, sound, and feel.
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