TTC Flaming Pink vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flaming Pink and Cherry MX Orange are two standout options that cater to different preferences while both being linear switches. The Flaming Pink is celebrated for its smooth and responsive feel, complemented by a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances the typing experience whether you're gaming or handling daily tasks. It strikes a balance with a bright sound profile that isn't overly loud, making it a versatile choice for a range of users. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches boast a legacy that extends back to the sought-after originals produced by Cherry's Japanese partner, Hirose, now reissued with enhancements for modern demands. This switch is known for its durability and reliability, making it a favorite among long-term keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches provide a linear experience, their unique characteristics and sound profiles make them appealing for different reasons. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Flaming Pink Linear

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.29

$4.00 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Flaming Pink and Cherry MX Orange switches present a fascinating comparison in their housing materials, particularly in the composition of their top housing. The Flaming Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness and translucency, allowing RGB lighting to effectively shine through. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when the switch is engaged. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange employs a nylon top housing, which, being a softer plastic, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in the top housing materials creates distinct auditory experiences, with the Flaming Pink being more resonant and vibrant, whereas the MX Orange offers a rounder, subdued sound.

While both switches share nylon material for their bottom housings, this commonality serves to unify their acoustic characteristics to some extent. The nylon used in both the TTC Flaming Pink and Cherry MX Orange absorbs sound effectively, contributing to the more muted and rounded effects on the bottom-out sound for both switches. As a result, while the Flaming Pink's top housing may create a sharper and crisper sound profile when a key is released, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a full and profound sound upon bottoming out. This combination means that users will experience a unique interplay of sounds, where the brilliance of polycarbonate in the Flaming Pink's top housing contrasts with the richness of nylon in both bottoms.

Ultimately, if one were to consider the overall sound profile and response of the TTC Flaming Pink and Cherry MX Orange, it would be essential to recognize how their combined materials influence the typing experience. While the polycarbonate top of the Flaming Pink lends itself to a more vibrant release sound, the overarching use of nylon at the base for both switches generates a deeper sound upon actuation. Thus, if you're looking for a set of switches with distinct auditory cues, the Flaming Pink and MX Orange provide those contrasts, yet they harmonize through their shared nylon lower housing. This synergy allows for a unique typing experience where the sound is enriched by the differences in the top housing materials, yet unified by the softness of nylon below.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the differences in actuation force reveal distinct preferences in terms of typing experience. The Flaming Pink switch features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, which allows for easier keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during long work sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial, tactile feel during typing. While the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unknown, the Flaming Pink’s bottom out force of 50 grams indicates that it also provides a relatively lighter overall experience. Consequently, if you're looking for a keyboard that maximizes comfort and reduces finger fatigue, the TTC Flaming Pink would be the superior option, while the Cherry MX Orange caters to individuals who appreciate a firmer push when typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the TTC Flaming Pink offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference is significant, particularly for gamers who often prefer the more responsive feel of a shorter switch like the Flaming Pink, allowing for quicker actuation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange may appeal to those who favor a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, as its longer travel distance provides a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for responsiveness versus depth, with the Flaming Pink offering a quicker actuation and the MX Orange providing a more traditional tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch is characterized by a bright yet not overly loud sound profile that delivers a satisfying bottom-out noise, enhancing the overall typing experience without being overly distracting. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Orange switch, while also praised for its enhancements in the MX2A generation, does not have specific sound characteristics detailed, leaving its auditory profile somewhat ambiguous. However, users can generally expect a balanced sound that complements its tactile feel.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Flaming Pink switch is regarded for its smooth and responsive action, which provides a premium typing experience that many gamers and typists appreciate. This smoothness contributes to a seamless transition between keystrokes, ideal for fast-paced gaming or fluid typing tasks. The Cherry MX Orange switch, being a revival of the original switches, is expected to deliver a similarly satisfying tactile feedback, but detailed descriptions of its feel are not specified. Consequently, while both switches aim to offer a high-quality experience, the exact nature of the MX Orange's tactile response remains uncertain.

In conclusion, both the TTC Flaming Pink and Cherry MX Orange switches have their unique appeal, particularly in their acoustic and tactile attributes. The Flaming Pink is celebrated for its smooth feel and pleasant sound, ideal for various typing scenarios. Although the MX Orange's specific sound and feel aren't elaborated upon, its heritage and enhancements suggest that it will provide a solid typing experience. For newcomers, both switches will likely yield satisfactory results, with the Flaming Pink offering a clearer advantage in its defined qualities while the MX Orange promises traditional reliability.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between TTC Flaming Pink linear switches and Cherry MX Orange linear switches ultimately hinges on your unique preferences and typing or gaming style. If you favor a lighter bottom-out force, an exceptionally smooth typing experience, and a sound profile that's pleasant yet not overly loud, the Flaming Pink switches would be an excellent choice for you. They are particularly suited for those who engage in both gaming and everyday typing, offering a premium feel that enhances productivity and enjoyment. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the reputation of Cherry switches and seek a more robust version that incorporates historical enhancements, the MX Orange may be more appealing, although specific sound and feel characteristics are less defined in the given context. Therefore, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it’s the overall lighter touch and smooth sound of the Flaming Pink or the nostalgic reliability and enhancements of the MX Orange. In the end, it’s all about personal preference and the experience you want from your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flaming Pink Linear

$4.29

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more