TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Flame Red and Gateron Type S are both popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red stands out for its captivating light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who enjoy backlit RGB keyboards. Typing on the Flame Red switch provides a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, giving it a neutral, mild, and polished categorization. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, a flagship offering from Sillyworks' Project Rehash, is known for its contemporary factory lubing techniques and 65g bottom-out weight, providing a weightier keystroke and a pleasing balance of sound signature that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, described as neutral and subdued. Both switches have their own strengths and would appeal to different individuals based on their preferences. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Type S feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them similar in terms of their housing materials. The use of nylon in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This creates a rounder and more subdued sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings.
While the housing materials of the Flame Red and Type S switches are the same, they may differ in terms of design or manufacturing processes, leading to potential variations in sound and feel. The qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite both switches using nylon for their housings, there may still be differences in the overall typing experience between the two.
In conclusion, the nylon top and bottom housings of the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Type S provide similar qualities when it comes to sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, resulting in a more subdued and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. While there may be differences in design and manufacturing that lead to variations in sound and feel, the overall housing materials contribute to a comparable typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we see that the Flame Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams while the Type S needs 65 grams, making the Flame Red the lighter option overall. The Flame Red provides a medium-light feel, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Type S offers a medium-heavy experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing sensation. Both switches offer a smooth linear action, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of feel even though the forces differ. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red and Gateron Type S linear switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two, they provide a consistent tactile feedback and actuation point for a smooth typing experience. With the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and performance. Despite their similarities, the choice between the two may come down to other factors such as sound level, durability, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a reliable option for those seeking a linear switch with a 4 mm 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 Gateron Type S 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
The Flame Red and Gateron Type S switches both exhibit a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. However, the Type S offers a subdued sound that is more dampened compared to the Flame Red, providing a quieter typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Flame Red is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience, making for a gentle and smooth keystroke. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Type S switch is unavailable. Overall, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a balanced sound profile, the Gateron Type S may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a backlit switch with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red is a great option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a quality typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a visually stunning experience with its light diffuser for a backlit RGB keyboard, as well as a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a sound signature that strikes a pleasing balance leaning towards a more neutral and deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches should be based on your personal preference for visuals, feel, and sound when typing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best fits your typing style and preferences.
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