TTC Flame Red vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and Bsun Taichi are two standout options, each with unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Flame Red is renowned for its captivating light diffuser that enhances the aesthetic appeal of backlit or RGB keyboards, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize visuals alongside performance. Additionally, users appreciate its weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, which combines a satisfying tactile experience with an engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi offers its own charm with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to its long-pole stem and extended springs, providing an unparalleled smoothness and stability that many enthusiasts crave. While both switches are linear in nature, appealing to those who favor smooth keystrokes without tactile bumps, their distinct sound profiles and design features set them apart. Ultimately, choosing between the Flame Red and Taichi involves considering factors like aesthetics, audio feedback, and typing feel; 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
3.60 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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Bsun Taichi switches, a distinctive contrast unfolds between the materials used for the top housing. The Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience. This characteristic creates a typing ambiance that many users appreciate for its subdued nature, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter workstation. In contrast, the Taichi employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties. This material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, lending clarity and resonance to each keystroke. For users seeking a more vibrant typing experience with an emphasis on audible feedback, the choice of polycarbonate is particularly appealing.
Meanwhile, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, leading to consistent characteristics in that regard. Nylon's classic properties in this section enhance the fullness and depth of sound, resulting in a harmonious typing experience. Regardless of the input methods, pressing the key against the nylon bottom housing of both the Flame Red and Taichi will produce a similar sonic effect—deep and muted. This shared material creates a unified tactile response during the keystroke, facilitating an enjoyable typing experience that leans towards a plush feel. The bottom housing thus plays a pivotal role in the overall perception of sound and feedback, ensuring that despite the variance seen with the top housings, the bottom end remains consistent.
The contrasting top housing materials ultimately influence the overall sound experience while typing. For the Flame Red's nylon top, users might appreciate a softer and more subdued auditory profile conducive to quieter environments. Conversely, the Taichi's polycarbonate top provides a radiant sound that enhances feedback during typing sessions, which may cater to gamers or users who prefer a more pronounced auditory experience. Nonetheless, the identical nylon bottom housing means that, regardless of user preference for the top sound characteristic, both switches can deliver a satisfactory blend of sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, users can select between the two switches according to auditory preferences and aesthetics, knowing that both will offer a lush, full-bodied typing feel at the bottom end.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch to the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Flame Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light feel that may appeal to those who type for extended periods or seek a lighter touch during gaming sessions. In contrast, the Taichi has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which could be more appealing to users who prioritize a less strenuous typing experience. However, the bottom out force of the Taichi remains unknown, making it difficult to directly compare how deeply its switches engage compared to the Flame Red's bottom out force of 54 grams. This difference in bottom out feel might result in a more substantial typing experience with the Flame Red, while the Taichi's lack of a specified bottom out force leaves its performance more ambiguous. In summary, the TTC Flame Red is the heavier option while the Bsun Taichi is lighter, giving users clear choices based on their preferred typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Flame Red offers a more traditional and deeper feel, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial key press. In contrast, the Taichi's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to modern preferences for quicker response times, making it ideal for gamers who favor speed over depth. Ultimately, users looking for a more responsive and agile typing experience might prefer the Taichi, while those who enjoy a fuller and more deliberate press will likely lean towards the Flame Red. Thus, the Flame Red is the longer travel distance option, while the Taichi is the shorter one.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The sound profiles of the TTC Flame Red and Bsun Taichi linear switches present distinct auditory experiences. The Flame Red switch embodies a neutral sound, characterized by a moderate actuation force and a moderate sound profile that makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a workplace. This balance ensures that it won't be overly loud or distracting, making it a suitable choice for beginners and seasoned typists alike. In contrast, the Taichi switch delivers a clackier sound, producing a sharper and snappier response when keys are pressed. This brightness and percussive quality can create a more engaging typing experience but may be less suitable in quieter settings where noise might be a concern. Keep in mind that the overall sound can also vary significantly based on the keyboard build and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, both switches showcase a polished typing experience, but they approach it differently. The Flame Red provides a mild touch, offering users a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most. Its smoothness and refined texture result from quality materials and potential factory lubing, allowing for a pleasing, low-friction key travel. On the other hand, the Taichi also boasts a polished finish, ensuring a similarly smooth and refined sensation during typing. However, the Taichi's design, with its long-pole stem and extended springs, aims to enhance stability and overall smoothness, providing a feeling that might appeal more to those who prefer a touch of complexity in their tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Flame Red and Bsun Taichi switches offer smooth and polished feelings, they differ notably in their sound profiles. The Flame Red’s neutral sound and mild feel make it a versatile choice for various users, while the Taichi’s clacky sound and focus on stability may cater to those looking for an audibly distinctive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision would depend on your personal preferences for sound intensity and the typing experience you seek, as both switches can achieve a satisfying result based on their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams, a neutral sound profile, and a smooth yet mild typing experience, the Flame Red is an excellent choice. Its captivating light diffuser makes it particularly suited for those who enjoy backlit or RGB keyboards, adding a visual appeal to your setup. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a more pronounced acoustic experience and find joy in the enchanting, clacky sound characteristic of the Taichi, you might prefer its long-pole stem and extended springs which deliver unparalleled smoothness and stability. The Taichi's clacky sound may resonate with you if you enjoy a more energetic typing environment. Both switches are polished for a refined feel, but the decision really lies in whether you value a balanced typing experience with moderate sound or are eager for an engaging auditory feedback with a more dynamic character.
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