TTC Flaming Pink vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can greatly enhance your typing or gaming experience. The TTC Flaming Pink switch is celebrated for its smooth, responsive feel and satisfying bottom-out sound, making it a prime choice for users who value a premium experience combined with a balanced auditory feedback, categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Silky'. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A, part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, boasts a medium-weight profile and employs advanced lubing techniques to redefine traditional travel distances, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued and neutral sound signature. While the Flaming Pink offers a bright yet not overly loud sound, the Type A leans into deeper tones for a more refined acoustic atmosphere. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Flaming Pink favoring a vibrant feel and the Type A focusing on a balanced typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink switches and the Gateron Type A, a notable distinction arises in the composition of their top housings. The Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer nature. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a more crisp auditory experience when typing. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate allows for light to pass through, enhancing the visual appeal for setups featuring RGB lighting. In contrast, the Gateron Type A employs a nylon top housing. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience, characterized by a duller and rounder profile. Therefore, the choice of material for the top housing significantly affects the overall sound signature of each switch, with the Flaming Pink providing clarity and resonance while the Type A offers warmth and depth.
Interestingly, both the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Type A utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a convergence in sound qualities at this lower portion of the switch. Because nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, both switches create a richer typing experience that is emphasized by the softer nature of their bottom housings. This similarity means that when the keys bottom out, users will feel a consistent, deep sound profile from both switches, which enhances their tactile experience. Thus, while the top housing materials create divergent auditory characteristics when the key is released, the shared nylon material in the bottom housing unites the typing experiences of the two switches.
Ultimately, the differences and similarities between the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Type A housing materials illustrate the nuanced impact that switch design can have on user experience. While the polycarbonate top of the Flaming Pink offers a sharper sound profile to complement its clear aesthetic, the nylon top of the Type A provides a more subdued auditory quality. However, both switches converge at the bottom with their nylon housing, delivering a consistent deep sound characteristic during bottom-out events. Consequently, users who appreciate both the clarity of polycarbonate and the warmth of nylon may find themselves gravitating towards the TTC Flaming Pink for its unique sound signature while still enjoying the comforting depth offered by the nylon bottom in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, clear differences emerge. The TTC Flaming Pink features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer softer switches that allow for longer typing sessions with reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Type A has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who favor a firmer push feel. This means that while the Flaming Pink switch is ideal for comfort during extended use, the Type A may appeal to users who appreciate feedback from a stronger actuation. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch would benefit from the TTC Flaming Pink, whereas those who prefer a heavier touch might gravitate towards the Gateron Type A.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Pink linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Flaming Pink provides a more responsive keystroke, appealing particularly to gamers who favor quicker actuation for enhanced performance. On the other hand, the Type A, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, offers a greater depth that some users may find more satisfying for typing, as it allows for a more substantial feedback experience. Therefore, if you prefer a switch that feels snappier and caters to rapid input, the Flaming Pink would be the better choice, whereas if you enjoy a more deliberate keypress with more resistance, the Type A would be more suitable. Overall, the Flaming Pink is the shorter switch, and the Type A is longer, impacting the typing experience significantly based on personal preference.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Type A linear switches, the Flaming Pink has a clacky tone that gives off a bright and percussive auditory experience, enhancing the keyboard's liveliness, particularly appreciated in both gaming and casual typing contexts. In contrast, the Gateron Type A features a more subdued sound that is characterized as neutral, leaning towards a deeper sound signature. This allows for a moderate, less intrusive auditory experience, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting.
In terms of feel, the Flaming Pink stands out for its silky smoothness, providing a seamless typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This characteristic allows for fast and comfortable typing over extended periods. The Gateron Type A, while offering a satisfactory typing experience, lacks specific descriptors regarding its tactile feel, making it more difficult to gauge how it compares in this regard. However, both switches are designed to cater to users seeking a linear switch experience, suggesting that they may offer similar levels of smoothness and comfort.
Considering these factors, the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch provides a brighter, more engaging sound that may appeal to those who enjoy a lively auditory experience, alongside a smooth typing feel. The Gateron Type A, meanwhile, balances its deeper sound profile with a versatile application suitable for most users. Ultimately, if you prioritize a clackier sound and silky feel, the Flaming Pink is the way to go; however, if you prefer a more subdued auditory profile that fits seamlessly into various settings, the Type A could serve you well. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, ensuring a generally smooth typing experience, though their distinct sound characteristics offer different advantages.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, your preferences and intended use case will guide your choice. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force, a smooth and silky typing experience, and enjoy a bright yet not overwhelming sound profile, the Flaming Pink will be an excellent match for you. It excels in both gaming and everyday tasks, providing a satisfying and responsive feel that enhances your typing enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a more subdued sound with a neutral character, the Gateron Type A may be the better option. Its deeper sound profile and medium-light feel make it versatile for a variety of settings, from home to office work. Ultimately, consider your comfort with actuation forces, sound preferences, and the environments in which you’ll use your keyboard, as these factors will significantly influence your experience with either switch.
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