TTC Flaming Purple vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Matcha offer distinct typing experiences. The Flaming Purple, a linear switch, is celebrated for its resonant character and slightly bassier sound profile, making each keystroke engaging and satisfying. With a feathery touch and easy-to-press actuation at just 47g, it is ideal for both enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is a tactile switch that boasts a comfortable and snappy tactility, resulting in a clean bottom-out sound. Known for its stepped and clacky feel, the Matcha provides a subtle yet satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Matcha switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Flaming Purple features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, known for being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp and crisp sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate materials. This contrast in bottom housing materials may result in differences in the overall sound and feel of the switches during use.
Ultimately, the choice between the Flaming Purple and the Matcha will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing experience. The Flaming Purple with its nylon bottom housing may appeal to those seeking a deeper and fuller sound, while the Matcha with its consistent polycarbonate housing throughout may provide a more uniform sound profile. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housings, ensuring a clear and resonant sound that is ideal for those looking for a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, the Flaming Purple has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Matcha's 40 grams, while both have a bottom out force of 47 grams for the Flaming Purple and 45 grams for the Matcha. Both switches offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Flaming Purple may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its slightly heavier actuation force. However, both switches fall on the lighter end of the spectrum, which is ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch. The Flaming Purple offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for a fast-paced experience. On the other hand, the Matcha switch provides a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, quicker response or a longer, more deliberate key press.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 stands out for its bassier undertones and resonant character, providing a unique and engaging auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as producing a clean and clacky bottom-out sound, giving a sharp and snappy sound profile. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the Flaming Purple leans towards a bassier and more resonant tone compared to the Matcha's crisp and bright clacky sound.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, offering a light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and strain. The Matcha tactile switch, on the other hand, presents a stepped and snappy feel, providing a tactile bump that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Both switches offer different tactile profiles, with the Flaming Purple focusing on a smooth and effortless typing experience, while the Matcha accentuates a medium amount of tactility and responsiveness that can make typing feel more alive.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you prefer a bassier and feathery switch with a resonant sound profile, the Flaming Purple would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and stepped switch with snappy tactility, the Matcha could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, both switches provide their own distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you're looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and feathery typing experience with a slightly bassier sound profile, the Flaming Purple switch with its 47g bottom-out force might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy and tactile typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch with its 45g bottom-out force and stepped tactility could be more suited to your needs. Consider how the sound and feel descriptions align with your preferences and typing requirements to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
