TTC Flame Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. Both switches fall into the linear switch category, offering a seamless typing experience with their smooth actuation. Each switch, however, brings its own unique characteristics to the table. The Flame Red switches are not only known for their feel and sound but also for their visually stunning light diffuser, making them the perfect choice for those with backlit, RGB keyboards. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches combine classic materials with cutting-edge engineering, delivering a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Enthusiasts will also appreciate the familiar sound signature they offer. In terms of feel, the Flame Red switches provide a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, while the WS Yellow switches are crafted to be lightweight, offering effortless keystrokes and ensuring a fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing materials. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches of both keyboards. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of sound profile, both keyboards will provide similar results due to their shared use of nylon housing.
However, even though they share the same housing material, there may still be differences in sound and feel between the Flame Red and the WS Yellow. This is because the qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom housing of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down. So, while the nylon bottom housing of both keyboards will contribute to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, other factors such as the switch design and spring strength may influence the overall tactile feedback.
On the other hand, the top housing of the switch will have a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. This means that there could be subtle differences in the sound profile between the Flame Red and the WS Yellow keyboards, even though they both use nylon for their top housing. Factors such as the shape or thickness of the top housing could affect the reverberation and resonance of the sound when a key is lifted. These nuanced differences could result in slightly varied auditory experiences between the two keyboards.
In summary, the Flame Red and the WS Yellow share the nylon housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. They will provide similar results in terms of sound when pressing down on the keys. However, differences may arise due to the split qualities of the housing material between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. These factors may contribute to nuanced variations in the typing experience between the two keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall under the category of medium-light actuation and bottom out forces. The Flame Red exhibits an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Yellow's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches feature a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a similar resistance when fully pressed. These similarities in force make them suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience and want to avoid fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the specific actuation force of the WS Yellow remains undisclosed, it is reasonable to expect comparable results to the Flame Red in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for either a slightly lighter or heavier key press.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Flame Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Yellow has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Flame Red's travel distance is slightly longer than the WS Yellow, providing a slightly deeper feel when pressing down on the keys. This can be preferable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times. This shorter distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the specific use case. However, both switches offer similar results in terms of their linear switch design, ensuring smooth and consistent keypresses.
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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Flame Red switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the WS Yellow switch. It's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. Being a mild switch, it provides a more gentle typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users, as its qualities are in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. Similarly, the WS Yellow switch is also described as mild and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. The creamy sensation of these switches is akin to effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys, as each keystroke melts into the switch with ease.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Flame Red linear switch is best known for its weighty smoothness, clacky sound profile, neutral sound, mild feel, and polished finish. It is particularly suited for those who desire a backlit RGB keyboard due to its dazzling light diffuser. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch is known for its delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce, familiar sound signature, lightweight design, mild feel, and polished finish. While there may be differences in their sound profiles, both switches provide similar mild and polished typing experiences. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and the specific keyboard setup you have in mind.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are a few factors to consider.
If you prioritize visuals and want a switch that complements a backlit or RGB keyboard, the Flame Red is the best choice. Its dazzling light diffuser adds an extra level of visual appeal to your keyboard setup. Additionally, the Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile when typing, providing a satisfying tactile experience.
On the other hand, if you value a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce, the WS Yellow is the way to go. With its 22mm double-stage spring, this switch delivers effortless keystrokes and ensures a smooth and fluid typing experience. Furthermore, the WS Yellow offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts have come to adore.
In terms of sound, the Flame Red is described as neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use it at home or work. Unfortunately, no information is provided about the sound profile of the WS Yellow.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, they both have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Flame Red and the WS Yellow will depend on your preferences and priorities. Consider the visual appeal, typing experience, and sound profile that best align with your needs and make an informed decision.
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