TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer their own unique features to consider. The Flame Red is renowned for its stunning light diffuser, making it the top choice for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness accompanied by a clacky sound profile, falling into the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offers a different experience with its innovative design focusing on travel distances and factory lubing techniques. Positioned as a medium-weight switch, the Type A produces a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum, falling into the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. While both switches have their strengths, it is important to delve deeper to determine which one best suits your preferences and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Type A are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches provide a similar typing experience due to their nylon top and bottom housings, creating a consistent feel and sound profile across the board.
While both the Flame Red and Type A switches utilize nylon for their top housing, the differences may lie in their bottom housing materials. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a different impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing, in particular, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound as the key is released. These subtle distinctions can influence the overall typing experience and contribute to the unique characteristics of each switch.
Overall, the use of nylon as the primary housing material for both switches ensures a similar sound profile and feel while typing. The deeper and fuller sound produced by nylon helps create a satisfying typing experience for users of both the Flame Red and Type A switches. Whether it's the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound or the top housing affecting the sound on key release, the nylon material enhances the overall performance and acoustics of these switches, providing a consistent and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both fall into the medium-light category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Flame Red has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. Similarly, the Flame Red also has a lighter bottom out force of 54 grams compared to the Type A's 55 grams. This means that the Flame Red switch will provide a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable for users who prefer a medium-light touch for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel before the switch actuates. The consistent travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures that users will receive a similar typing experience in terms of key press depth. Whether typing on a keyboard with TTC Flame Red linear switches or Gateron Type A linear switches, users can expect a uniform level of tactile feedback and responsiveness due to the identical travel distances.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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, the Flame Red and Type A switches are both classified as having a neutral sound profile. This means they offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound signature that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, the Type A switch also has a subdued quality, producing a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound compared to most other switches.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Flame Red is considered to have a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic provides a gentle typing feel, while the polished finish results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Type A switch, specific information on its feel is unknown.
Overall, both the Flame Red and Type A switches are suitable for a wide range of users and applications. They both offer neutral sound profiles and provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Flame Red featuring a polished finish that enhances its smoothness. Whether you choose the Flame Red for its dazzling light diffuser or the Type A for its innovative design and factory lubing techniques, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and potentially feel, making either choice a reliable option for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a dazzling light diffuser and a weighty smoothness for a clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be a great choice, especially if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound profile and factory lubing for a smoother typing experience, the Gateron Type A linear switch from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you prioritize visual aesthetics and a specific sound profile (Flame Red) or a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound (Type A).
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