TTC Flaming Pink vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie are two popular linear options that cater to different user preferences. The Flaming Pink is celebrated for its smooth, responsive feel and satisfying bottom-out sound, making it a top choice for both gamers and casual typists who appreciate a premium typing experience without an overly loud sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a delightful thocky sound profile, accompanied by exceptional smoothness, all while being budget-friendly thanks to its all-POM construction. Both switches provide a captivating typing experience, yet they each have unique characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches both utilize distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, leading to differing sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing which is known for providing a higher-pitched, sharper, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate’s stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie's top housing is made of POM, a material that tends to create a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials contribute to the overall auditory experience, their contrasting properties ultimately result in different tonal qualities and sensations when typing.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences become more pronounced. The Flaming Pink utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller, deeper sound profile. This contrasts with the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom housing, which, while also delivering a unique and pleasing sound, is described as notably muted. Although both materials impart a deep tonal quality, the nylon in the Flaming Pink has the distinct advantage of enhancing the fullness and richness of the sound, whereas the POM in the Sea Salt Smoothie lends itself towards a more subdued auditory experience.
Ultimately, the combination of these different housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of each switch. The Flaming Pink's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom work synergistically to create a sharper high-end and deeper tonal characteristics, while the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM construction typically results in a calmer, more rounded sound profile. If one were to use both switches together in a keyboard, the contrasts in their sound profiles would be evident, but the underlying principles—sharpness from stiffness and fullness from softness—would produce a diverse yet harmoniously engaging typing experience. Even with varying materials, enthusiasts can achieve satisfying results by focusing on how each housing affects the interplay of sound when keys are pressed and released.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Flaming Pink has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for longer typing sessions due to its reduced effort requirement. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams, indicating a stronger push feel that some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown, which means we cannot make a direct comparison in that aspect. Overall, if you favor a lighter touch for extended use, the Flaming Pink would be the better choice, while the Sea Salt Smoothie might appeal to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke feel, although the exact bottom out experience remains to be determined.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, the Flaming Pink measures 3.6 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Flaming Pink the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel for those who prioritize quick keypresses, such as gamers. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more comfortable and hearty typing experience, which some users may prefer. Both switches are relatively close in their travel distances, with only a 0.1 mm difference, allowing for a similar overall typing experience, but the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences for either speed or depth.
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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 linear switch offers a bright yet not overly loud profile, striking a balance that makes it suitable for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. The bottom-out sound is satisfying without being intrusive, providing an enjoyable auditory feedback during use. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch is known for its thocky sound profile, which adds a richer, deeper tone to each keystroke. This richness in sound might appeal to users who appreciate a more resonant auditory experience. However, both switches will produce distinct sounds influenced by the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used, which can further shape their acoustic character.
When it comes to feel, the Flaming Pink switch is recognized for its smooth and responsive actuation, creating a fluid typing experience that enhances user engagement whether in gaming or typist scenarios. Users can expect a seamless movement that reduces fatigue during extended sessions. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie switch also emphasizes smoothness, complemented by a medium-weight feel, which can provide a satisfying resistance that balances typing comfort and control. Both switches deliver exceptional smoothness, though the Flaming Pink may feel slightly lighter and more linear, while the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a hint of resistance that some users may prefer.
Overall, both the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches cater to users seeking high-quality typing experiences. The Flaming Pink stands out with its balanced sound profile and responsive feel, making it versatile for various uses. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie shines with its unique thocky sound and medium-weight action for those who enjoy more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, but either pick promises an enjoyable and premium feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are seeking a switch that provides a lighter touch with a smooth and responsive feel, the Flaming Pink might be the better option for you. Its 50-gram actuation force is ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons, offering a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances your overall experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a medium-weight feel combined with a thocky sound profile and remarkable smoothness, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie could be the switch you're looking for. It's perfect for those who enjoy a more substantial feedback while typing and value a quality experience at an accessible price. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a lighter touch and quieter operation with the Flaming Pink or desire a more weighty tactile sensation and deeper sound with the Sea Salt Smoothie.
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