TTC Flaming Purple vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Lightning mechanical keyboard switches, we see two linear switches that offer unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant and bassier sound profile, making each keystroke engaging with a touch of poppy undertones. It also boasts a feathery feel with a low bottom-out force of 47g, ensuring quick and effortless typing for both enthusiasts and daily users. On the other hand, the Lightning switches from KTT are renowned for their speed, making them perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between victory and defeat. These switches provide a slick typing experience with a clacky sound profile, offering a polished and subtle feel. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Purple and KTT Lightning both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that creates a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that use RGB lighting. However, despite both switches using the same material for their top housing, the overall sound and feel may vary based on other factors such as the switch design and additional housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Flaming Purple and Lightning switches feature nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate housings. While both switches may share the same bottom housing material, the design and construction of each switch can still impact the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing. While the Flaming Purple and Lightning switches share similarities in their housing materials, they may still provide unique typing experiences based on other factors such as switch design and additional materials used. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound or the softer nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, each material brings its own characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is slightly lighter than that of the KTT Lightning linear switch, with 42 grams compared to 43 grams, respectively. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Flaming Purple requires 47 grams, while the Lightning demands 50 grams. Both switches fall on the lighter end of the force spectrum, which may be ideal for those looking for a smoother typing or gaming experience. The difference in force between the two switches is relatively minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience, with the Flaming Purple offering a slightly lighter touch and the Lightning providing a slightly more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. This means that the Flaming Purple switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lightning switch. The Flaming Purple switch may provide a bit more depth and cushioning compared to the Lightning switch, which might feel slightly more abrupt due to its shorter travel distance. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 Purple linear switch offers a bassier and resonant experience, providing a deep and rich sound profile with a touch of poppiness. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is known for a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and snappy audio feedback during key presses. Depending on personal preference, individuals may favor the deeper tones of the Flaming Purple or the crispness of the Lightning. The choice of keycaps and keyboard design will also impact the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. The smooth and silky typing experience provided by this switch enhances the overall typing feel, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and daily typists. Conversely, the KTT Lightning switch offers a subtle resistance with a polished finish, resulting in a light and refined typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces. The choice between these switches will depend on whether one prefers a feathery feel or a more subtle typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Flaming Purple provides a bassier and resonant sound profile with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, the Lightning offers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a subtle and polished typing experience. Both switches excel in their own right, allowing users to customize their mechanical keyboards according to their desired audio and tactile preferences. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will come down to individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bassier sound profile with feathery, easy-to-press key feel, the Flaming Purple might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound with a subtle, polished key feel, the Lightning switch could be more suitable. Additionally, if you need speed and precision in your typing experience, the Lightning switch may give you that edge. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Choose the one that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
