TTC Flame Red vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Twilight provides distinct advantages. The Flame Red switches are renowned for their striking aesthetics, featuring a dazzling light diffuser that enhances any backlit or RGB keyboard setup, making them an ideal choice for gamers and enthusiasts who prioritize flashy designs. Beyond their visual appeal, the Flame Reds deliver a weighty smoothness and a mildly clacky sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience categorized as 'Neutral,' 'Mild,' and 'Polished.' In contrast, the HMX Twilight switches offer an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, contributing to a quieter operation while still retaining the punchy clack that aficionados love. This can make them a solid option for those who appreciate tactile feedback without the noise. Both switches present unique benefits, so it’s important to consider how their characteristics align with your personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and HMX Twilight mechanical switches, an interesting observation arises in regard to their housing materials. Both switches feature nylon for both their top and bottom housings, which positions them within a similar acoustic profile. Nylon is known for its capability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature compared to harder plastics. This characteristic means that both switches will generate a duller and rounder sound, creating a pleasurable typing experience that many users look for in mechanical keyboards. As such, the common choice of nylon in both models allows them to deliver a comparable auditory environment, enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials are identical, it is crucial to note how the interaction between the top and bottom housings may influence the tactile and auditory experience during use. In both the Flame Red and Twilight switches, the bottom housing predominantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a distinct tactile feedback when a key is fully pressed down. Conversely, the sound generated when releasing a key is largely influenced by the top housing. Thus, even though both switches boast the same material, the exact sound and feel profile might slightly differ during actual operation due to the dynamic interplay of their housings. This means that while the intrinsic qualities of nylon facilitate a similar sound characteristic, individual experiences can vary depending on the keypress action.
Ultimately, the similarities in the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and HMX Twilight switches suggest that users can expect comparable performance in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. Both switches utilize nylon for their housing, promoting a rich, textured soundscape that enhances the overall user experience. However, nuances in feel and sound can emerge based on user interaction due to the differing impacts of the top and bottom housings during key presses. Therefore, while users may find they achieve similar auditory results with both switches, their unique preferences could lead them to further explore each switch's feel and acoustic signature in practical application.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, it's clear that both switches cater to different preferences in terms of weight and typing experience. The Flame Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the HMX Twilight is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means that users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Twilight, which requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Meanwhile, those who appreciate a more substantial push feel may prefer the heavier Flame Red switch. Thus, while both switches offer differing levels of actuation and bottom out forces, the Twilight is clearly the lighter option, enabling a potentially more effortless and comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flame Red and HMX Twilight linear switches, the Flame Red measures 4 mm while the Twilight has a travel distance of 3.85 mm. This indicates that the Flame Red is the longer option by 0.15 mm, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing keys. In contrast, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Twilight switch caters to those seeking quicker responsiveness, which is often favored by gamers. Overall, if you're aiming for a more tactile experience with a noticeable press, the Flame Red would be the better choice; however, if speed and rapid actuation take precedence in your typing or gaming, the HMX Twilight offers an advantage with its reduced 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 HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 characteristics of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, the Flame Red presents a neutral sound profile, striking a balance that caters well to both beginners and experienced users alike. This moderate actuation sound allows it to be versatile for various environments, whether in a home office or a typical workplace scenario. The Twilight switch, while still retaining some clacky traits inherent in HMX switches, offers a slightly quieter experience due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance. The specific description of its sound profile remains unknown, but users can expect a softer sound compared to the Flame Red, making it suitable for those who prefer a less intrusive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red is characterized by its mild and polished qualities, providing a gentle typing experience that is accessible to most users. The smoothness derived from its polished finish ensures minimal friction and a sleek key travel experience, enabling effortless typing. However, the feel of the Twilight switch is not described, leaving an element of uncertainty in how it may compare to the refined characteristics of the Flame Red. Given that both switches are linear, one can anticipate a generally smooth key press, but without additional details, it's challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the TTC Flame Red linear switch stands out with its neutral sound and polished, mild feel, the HMX Twilight linear switch appears to offer a quieter experience with an extended travel distance. Although the specific qualities of the Twilight's sound and feel are not detailed, both switches can provide a smooth typing experience due to their linear nature. For users deciding between the two, visual aesthetics and the sound profile of the Flame Red could be critical factors, while those valuing a quieter operation may lean towards the Twilight.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch fundamentally comes down to your typing preferences and keyboard usage. If you favor a slightly heavier feel with a medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams, the Flame Red switch might be ideal for you, especially if you enjoy a visually striking keyboard setup with RGB lighting, as these switches shine bright with their light diffuser. The Flame Red also provides a smooth typing experience with a clacky yet neutral sound profile that makes it suitable for a variety of environments—whether you’re typing at home or in an office. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the HMX Twilight might be the better choice, particularly if you prefer a quieter typing experience. The extended travel distance of 3.85mm can contribute to a more refined feel, which may be preferable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, go for the Flame Red if you're drawn to a more tactile, heavier switch that enhances RGB effects, while the Twilight is an excellent pick for those who appreciate lighter keystrokes and quieter operation. Your typing style and environment will dictate which switch suits your needs best.
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