TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron Ink Red

Overview

When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, both present intriguing options for users seeking a linear switch experience. The TTC Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant character, bassier sound signature, and feathery feel with a bottom-out force of just 47g, appealing to enthusiasts and casual typists alike. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red offers a lower actuation force, providing a smoother and clacky typing experience that is perfect for individuals with a lighter typing style. While the Flaming Purple boasts a touch of poppy undertones and the Ink Red is known for its satisfyingly smooth feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different 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

TTC Flaming Purple Linear

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$8.30

$4.30 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Ink Red, it is evident that they both prioritize sound profiles and aesthetics. The Flaming Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Ink Red features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing known for its slightly high-pitched, clacky sound. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying auditory experience for users, with the Flaming Purple offering a clearer and more resonant sound, and the Ink Red providing a unique, pointed sound that is still pleasant to the ears.

However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The Flaming Purple incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. On the other hand, the Ink Red also utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, maintaining a similar high-pitched and clacky sound as its top housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials may result in a difference in typing experience for users, with the Flaming Purple offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the more pointed sound of the Ink Red.

Overall, while the top housings of both switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile upon key release, the bottom housings have a more pronounced impact on the overall typing experience, particularly in terms of key press and bottom-out sound and feel. Despite having different top and bottom housing materials, the Flaming Purple and the Gateron Ink Red manage to deliver similar results in terms of creating a unique and satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Flaming Purple also has a lighter bottom out force of 47 grams, while the Ink Red has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Flaming Purple switch is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red provides a more substantial push feel, making it a better choice for those who prefer a stronger typing experience. The actuation force and bottom out force of these switches play a significant role in determining the overall typing feel and responsiveness, making it important to consider these factors when choosing a switch for your keyboard.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Ink Red. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ink Red being closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Flaming Purple due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Ink Red more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences regarding key responsiveness and depth of press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Purple offers a bassier and more resonant typing experience compared to the Gateron Ink Red. The Flaming Purple switch provides a poppy undertone to each keystroke due to its slightly bass-heavy sound profile, while the Ink Red switch presents a neutral sound with a chirpy touch. The choice between these switches would depend on whether you prefer a deeper and richer sound (Flaming Purple) or a more neutral and slightly unique sound (Ink Red).

In terms of feel, both the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Ink Red offer silky typing experiences, ensuring smooth key presses and releases. The Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Ultimately, if you prioritize a lighter and effortless typing feel, the Flaming Purple may be the preferred choice, while the Ink Red could be suitable for those seeking a smoother and more refined typing experience.

Taking into consideration both sound and feel characteristics, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch each offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Flaming Purple excels with its bassier sound and feathery feel, the Ink Red provides a neutral sound with a polished and mild typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize a unique sound profile or a smooth typing feel, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel by selecting the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom-out force and a distinctive sound profile that leans towards a bassier tone, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch may be ideal for you. Its feathery feel and engaging auditory flair make it suitable for enthusiasts and daily typists alike. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a moderate actuation force and a smooth, crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch could be a great choice. Its easy-to-press feel and satisfyingly smooth typing experience cater to those with a lighter typing style. Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Ink Red will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force. Choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences for an optimized typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flaming Purple Linear

$8.30

$4.30 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more