TTC Flame Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Dash offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Flame Red switch shines with its stunning light diffuser, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the aesthetics of backlit RGB keyboards. Known for its weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, this linear switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', providing a satisfying typing experience that many users find appealing. In contrast, the WS Dash, a revitalized version of the Magnetic Jade, brings the unique technology of Hall Effect switches to the table. Praised for its bright, clacky sound signature and silky smooth keystroke, the WS Dash is perfect for those seeking both auditory and tactile pleasure in their typing experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Polished', and 'Silky', it exemplifies refinement while offering a modern twist on traditional switch designs. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, significant distinctions can be observed, particularly in their top housings. The TTC Flame Red features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound waves, resulting in a rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the WS Dash employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer material that delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate further enhances its role in RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to pass through more effectively. Thus, while both switches can facilitate a rich typing experience, the sonic qualities they offer differ significantly based on the material choices for their top housings.
Interestingly, when it comes to their bottom housings, both the TTC Flame Red and WS Dash utilize nylon. This commonality means that regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, both switches share a characteristic that enhances their bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound, delivering a more muted keystroke experience that contributes to a deeper, fuller typing sound. This shared feature suggests that users of either switch can expect a consistent emotional response during their typing endeavors, due to the influence of the nylon material which softens the impact and enforces a more rounded auditory experience once keys are pressed.
In summary, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Flame Red and the WS Dash reflect contrasting philosophies in sound design and user experience. With the Flame Red's nylon top and bottom housing, the emphasis is on a rich, full-bodied sound, while the WS Dash alternates with a polycarbonate top to present a sharper auditory feedback. However, both are unified by their nylon bottom housings that result in a shared sound characteristic. Therefore, while a comparative examination reveals distinct auditory profiles when typing, users can find similar results in the bottom-out experience and overall feel, thanks to the identical material used for the bottom housing in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces although their bottom out forces are quite comparable. The Flame Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is heavier than the WS Dash's lighter actuation force of just 30 grams. This means that typists may experience a more substantial push feel with the Flame Red, making it preferable for those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS Dash, with its lower actuation force, can facilitate longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it an appealing choice for those seeking comfort during extended use. As for the bottom out force, both switches fall in a similar range with the Flame Red at 54 grams and the WS Dash at 55 grams, indicating that they respectively require almost the same force to reach the bottom of the keystroke. Overall, while both switches may suit medium-light preferences, the TTC Flame Red leans towards a heavier feel in terms of actuation, while the WS Dash offers a lighter touch, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option in comparison to the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Flame Red's travel distance aligns with the most traditional measurement, providing a more pronounced keypress that some users may favor for its depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS Dash, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prefer quicker response times, appealing particularly to gamers who value swift actuation. While both switches can deliver satisfying experiences based on individual preferences, the Flame Red will feel more substantial during keypresses, whereas the WS Dash may feel more abrupt but responsive for fast-paced actions.
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 Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 delivers a neutral acoustic profile, producing a moderate sound that can be described as clacky but not overly loud. This makes it versatile for various environments, suitable for both casual typing at home and more professional settings without being distracting. In contrast, the WS Dash hall effect switch presents a distinctly brighter and snappier clacky signature characterized by its crisp and percussive feedback. While both switches might resonate on the clacky side, the WS Dash offers a more pronounced auditory experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more stimulating typing sound. However, keep in mind that the overall sound produced will still vary based on the keyboard construction and keycaps used.
Regarding feel, both switches feature a polished finish that ensures a smooth and refined typing experience. The Flame Red is described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that caters to a wide range of users, making it approachable for both novices and seasoned typists. Its smoothness is complemented by a sense of weighty resistance that adds a level of tactile satisfaction. Conversely, the WS Dash provides a silky feeling that amplifies the smoothness and minimizes resistance during key presses, creating an exceptionally pleasant typing experience. Thus, while both might feel refined and polished, the WS Dash lends an added layer of smoothness that enhances its luxurious typing experience.
Considering all these qualities, both the TTC Flame Red and WS Dash switches present distinctive yet somewhat comparable attributes that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red excels in its versatility with a moderate sound and mild feel, making it great for everyday use without overwhelming the senses. In contrast, the WS Dash focuses on delivering a vibrant auditory experience combined with an exceptionally smooth keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing environment. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, though both promise a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you're looking for a switch that offers a great balance of smoothness and a neutral sound profile, and especially if you prioritize the aesthetics of RGB lighting, the Flame Red is a fantastic choice. Its mild feel makes it approachable for both beginners and experienced typists, while the polished finish ensures a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a more vibrant and clacky sound signature, with a silky smooth keystroke, the WS Dash might be more up your alley. These switches excel in providing an upscale typing sensation, particularly suited for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In the end, consider your environment and whether you value subtlety or a lively typing experience, and choose the switch that resonates most with your style.