TTC Flame Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red both offer unique features and benefits. The Flame Red stands out for its stunning light diffuser, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, giving a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Red features a 22mm double-stage spring, offering a bouncy and responsive typing experience. Despite its heavier actuation force, this switch retains a familiar sound signature and delivers a substantial typing feel. While these general pointers paint an initial picture, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond the generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red are both made of nylon, making them similar in terms of their material composition. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on keyboards with these switches. Whether it is the top or bottom housing, the inherent characteristics of nylon contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
However, despite their similarities, there may be slight differences between the top and bottom housings of each switch. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each housing material will be distributed accordingly. The bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will play a larger role in determining the sound when the key is released.
Although the materials used in the housing of the Flame Red and the WS Red switches are the same, the overall experience and sound profile may slightly differ due to potential variations in manufacturing and design. Nonetheless, those looking for a deep and full sound with a rounder tone will likely achieve similar results with either switch due to the contribution of nylon as the housing material. Choosing between the two may ultimately depend on other factors such as personal preference, the specific keyboard setup, or additional features offered by each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, some notable differences arise. The Flame Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, while its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 54 grams. On the other hand, the WS Red switch does not have available information regarding its actuation force, but its bottom out force is significantly higher at 67 grams, categorizing it as medium- heavy.
In terms of weight, some individuals may prefer lighter switches to enable longer typing sessions, making the Flame Red switch a suitable choice for work or extended gaming sessions. The TTC Flame Red switch strikes a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing a pleasant typing experience for those who do not require a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier bottom out force, contributing to a more pronounced tactile feedback.
While the specific actuation force for the WS Red switch is unknown, it can be assumed that it would be within the medium-light to medium-heavy range, similar to the Flame Red switch. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver comparable results in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Flame Red switch offers a lighter option, while the WS Red switch provides a heavier alternative. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it can be observed that the Flame Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Flame Red being slightly longer.
The difference of 0.2 mm in travel distance may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the user's experience. Gamers, for instance, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, which can be crucial in competitive gaming scenarios. The WS Red, with its 3.8 mm travel distance, might be the preferred choice for gamers seeking that extra level of responsiveness.
On the other hand, some individuals might find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key, the Flame Red's 4 mm travel distance would be the better option for you. The additional 0.2 mm of travel distance provides a slightly more immersive experience, which can be appealing to those who value a sense of fullness in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, while the Flame Red and WS Red linear switches have similar travel distances, with the Flame Red being slightly longer, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prioritize a faster response time and prefer a shorter travel distance, the WS Red would be the way to go. Conversely, if you enjoy a more substantial and immersive keystroke, the Flame Red with its longer travel distance would be the ideal choice. Either way, both switches offer reliable performance and can deliver satisfactory results.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 WS Red switches differ in both sound and feel. The Flame Red switch has a clacky sound profile, providing a weighty smoothness when typing. This switch offers a neutral sound, making it suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the WS Red switch has a classic sound signature due to its material blend, offering a familiar typing experience. While the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps, these switches provide distinct sound characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. With a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, the Flame Red switch falls within the safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the WS Red switch is unknown, as there is no specific description provided. However, it does mention a heavier actuation force, adding weight to each keystroke and delivering a satisfying and substantial typing experience.
Overall, the Flame Red and WS Red switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red switch provides a clacky sound profile and a weighty smoothness when typing, along with a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a classic sound signature and a heavier actuation force for a bouncy and responsive typing experience. It is important to consider personal preferences and purposes when choosing between these switches. However, if you desire a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Red switch is the better choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches are perfect for backlit, RGB keyboards due to their dazzling light diffuser. Additionally, they offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. In terms of feel, the Flame Red is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a touch of weight to each keystroke, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be a great option. With its double-stage spring, this switch delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Unfortunately, there is limited information available about the sound and feel characteristics of the WS Red switch, but it is safe to assume that it retains a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and WS Red linear switches will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.
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