TTC Flame Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two switches that stand out in the linear switch category are the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Flame Red switches are renowned for their stunning visuals, with a dazzling light diffuser making them a perfect choice for those who prioritize RGB lighting on their keyboards. The tactile experience of typing on Flame Reds is characterized by a weighty smoothness and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches offer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. These switches feature a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The POM stem is lightly lubed, contributing to minimal friction and a delightfully smooth keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear differ significantly, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon top housings creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear employs a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the WS Aurora Clear's clear housing is beneficial for RGB lighting. Therefore, while both housings have different characteristics, they provide distinct auditory experiences for keyboard users.
Similarly, the housing materials for the bottom housings of the Flame Red and the WS Aurora Clear differ, imparting unique sound attributes. The Flame Red's nylon bottom housing follows the same principles as its top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon enables it to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes a UHWMPE bottom housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature. This results in resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings. Therefore, the bottom housings contribute significantly to the overall sound produced by the switches, with nylon providing a deep and full sound, and UHWMPE offering a bright and clacky sound.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that each material has a distinct influence. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the qualities of the material used in the bottom housing will be more noticeable when pressing down on a key. In the case of the Flame Red, the softer nylon housing enhances the deeper and fuller sound experienced when typing. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, the material used in the top housing plays a crucial role in determining the crispness, sharpness, and clarity of the sound upon key release. Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Flame Red and the WS Aurora Clear result in contrasting auditory experiences, allowing keyboard enthusiasts to choose the sound profile that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams, making the Flame Red lighter in terms of actuation force. Furthermore, the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, whereas the WS Aurora Clear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making the WS Aurora Clear heavier when it comes to bottoming out.
These variances in force can have implications for different user preferences. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Flame Red would be a suitable choice, as its lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the WS Aurora Clear, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, as it provides a stronger push and a potentially more satisfying typing experience.
It's important to note that while the forces differ between the two switches, both are within the medium range. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and feel, with the main distinction being the slight disparity in force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the Flame Red and the WS Aurora Clear will depend on the individual's personal preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the WS Aurora Clear a slightly shallower option compared to the Flame Red. For gamers looking for faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the WS Aurora Clear would be the preferred choice. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel and depth when pressing down on a key might opt for the Flame Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 TTC Flame Red linear switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate, well-rounded sound when pressed, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use these switches at home or work, the Flame Red switch will provide a comfortable sound experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound. This makes them a great choice for those who prefer a more pronounced, higher-pitched sound instead of rich and bassy profiles. If you enjoy a vibrant and lively sound experience while typing, the WS Aurora Clear switches are a solid option for you.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The smoothness and weightiness of these switches contribute to a gentle and approachable feel. With its qualities falling within a safe middle-ground zone, the Flame Red switch provides a comfortable typing experience that will be well-received by most users. The switch's polished finish and possibly factory lubing result in reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing the overall feel.
Similarly, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The combination of a transparent polycarbonate top housing, UHMWPE bottom housing, and lightly lubed POM stem creates an ideal environment for a smooth and uniform keystroke. The WS Aurora Clear switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, especially for those who prefer a gentle feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound, as well as a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch provides a high-pitched sound profile and a buttery, mild typing experience. Both switches excel in their own ways and cater to different preferences. If you desire a backlit RGB keyboard, the Flame Red is the ideal choice with its dazzling light diffuser. Conversely, if you prioritize a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear is the way to go. It is important to note that individual preferences, along with other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps, can influence the overall subjective experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its dazzling light diffuser enhances the overall visual appeal, making it perfect for those who value style. Additionally, the Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, providing a unique typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. These switches feature a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke.
In terms of sound, the Flame Red is neutral, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. Conversely, the WS Aurora Clear produces a sharp and crisp sound, perfect for those who prefer higher-pitched switches and want to avoid richer and bassier sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel and reduced friction for smooth key travel. Similarly, the WS Aurora Clear provides a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch depends on your individual preferences. Whether you prioritize visual aesthetics and a backlit keyboard or a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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