TTC Flaming Pink vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, users often find themselves weighing the benefits of linear versus clicky options. The TTC Flaming Pink switch, for instance, is celebrated for its smooth and responsive feel, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike. Its understated sound profile provides a satisfying bottom-out experience without being overly loud, ensuring an enjoyable typing environment. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch is designed for those who appreciate tactile feedback and an audible click with each keystroke, making it particularly appealing for typists who enjoy the classic typewriter-like sensation. Each switch caters to different preferences: the Flaming Pink excels in quiet efficiency and smoothness, while the Outemu Blue offers a distinct auditory and tactile experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Pink and Outemu Blue switches both feature polycarbonate as their top housing material, which contributes to their distinctive sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its relatively stiff nature, allowing for clearer resonance when the key is pressed and released. This similarity in material not only enhances the auditory feedback during typing but also promotes an aesthetically pleasing look, especially with RGB lighting, which shines through the translucent polycarbonate. Consequently, users can expect similar auditory experiences from both switches when it comes to the sound emitted on key release, making them appealing options for those who prioritize clear, resonant sound profiles in their keyboard switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Flaming Pink and Outemu Blue switches employs nylon, a classic material renowned for its dampening properties. The characteristics of nylon contribute to a deeper, fuller sound when typing, owing to its softer nature. This absorption effect produces a duller and rounder sound profile that contrasts effectively with the brighter tones generated by the polycarbonate top. Thus, when both switches are engaged, the bottom housing influences the sound and feel more prominently during key presses, leading to a harmonious blend of distinct auditory qualities. The combination of these contrasting materials between the top and bottom housings ensures that users experience a multifaceted auditory feedback, resulting in a well-rounded typing experience.
Ultimately, while the TTC Flaming Pink and Outemu Blue switches differ in their bottom housing material, they share a common top housing design that enhances the overall sound clarity. This duality allows the switches to deliver a balanced auditory experience; the high-pitched, resonant notes from the polycarbonate top cooperation with the richer, rounder tones from the nylon bottom. As such, regardless of the differences in their sound profiles at the point of bottoming out, users can still achieve a cohesive auditory experience through the synthesis of both top and bottom housing materials. This synergy is what makes both switches a popular choice among enthusiasts who seek varied sound dynamics in their mechanical keyboards while retaining a clear and appealing sound during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, notable differences in actuation force reveal their unique typing experiences. The Flaming Pink switch features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it easier on the fingers and ideal for prolonged typing sessions, whether for work or extended gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a satisfying tactile experience. While the Flaming Pink also boasts a notable bottom out force of 50 grams, the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unknown, leaving it difficult to draw a complete comparison. Overall, the TTC Flaming Pink is the lighter option, catering to those who prioritize ease of use, while the Outemu Blue appeals to users seeking a firmer keystroke feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, there is a notable difference. The Flaming Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Blue features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Flaming Pink switch will provide a more responsive feel, making it an appealing choice for gamers who prioritize quick key presses. In contrast, the Blue switch offers a greater depth, which may appeal to typists or those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback when pressing down on a key. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Flaming Pink would be ideal, but if you favor a deeper keystroke experience, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Blue would be the better option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
The Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Flaming Pink switch emits a bright yet not overly loud sound profile, making it versatile for various settings without being disruptive. This quality enhances the overall typing experience, leaning towards a more premium feel without overwhelming the user with noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its distinctly clicky sound that provides an auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. This loud, sharp click sound is ideal for those who enjoy an unmistakable indication of key actuation, making it a popular choice among users who prefer a more pronounced auditory engagement.
When it comes to feel, the Flaming Pink switch is celebrated for its smooth and responsive action, delivering a seamless typing experience that is both enjoyable for gaming and everyday tasks. It allows for quick inputs with minimal resistance, making it great for those who are looking for a fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch stands out with a tactile bump and a defined actuation point. This feature provides users with clear feedback during typing, which can enhance precision, especially in typing tasks, though it may not be as smooth as the Flaming Pink.
Combining these insights, the TTC Flaming Pink switch offers a balanced experience that excels in smoothness and moderate sound output, suitable for various environments. Meanwhile, the Outemu Blue switch appeals to those who appreciate a tactile bump and a loud click, enhancing typing engagement. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will come down to personal preference; if you desire a quieter, smoother experience, the Flaming Pink will serve you well, while the Outemu Blue will satisfy those looking for tactile feedback and pronounced sound.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing experience you're seeking. If you value a smooth and responsive keypress along with a satisfying bottom-out sound without a harsh auditory distraction, the Flaming Pink is an excellent choice. Its lighter actuation force of 50 grams allows for quick, effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for gaming and prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback and the satisfying clicky sound that accompanies every keystroke, the Outemu Blue would suit you better. It provides a distinct auditory and tactile experience that can enhance typing accuracy, particularly if you enjoy the nostalgic feel of typewriter-style keys. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a quieter, fluid typing experience with the Flaming Pink or the loud, clicky feedback of the Blue for a more mechanical feel.
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