TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Mini i stand out as unique options for enthusiasts seeking different typing experiences. The Flaming Purple by TTC is a linear switch known for its resonant and bassier sound signature, offering a feathery touch with an easy-to-press bottom-out of just 47g. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch designed for office use, providing gentle tactility with a muted sound profile that still delivers satisfying feedback. While the Flaming Purple excels in providing a silky and engaging typing experience, the Mini i offers a subtle and comfortable alternative for long hours of work. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Mini i utilize nylon as the material for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This common material choice between the two switches suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing.
However, the major point of differentiation between the Flaming Purple and the Mini i lies in their top housing materials. The Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The differences in sound characteristics between the two switches can be attributed to the contrasting properties of polycarbonate and nylon.
In understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is crucial to recognize that the qualities of each material are distributed between the bottom and top housings of a switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the respective top and bottom housings of the Flaming Purple and Mini i contributes to distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we find that both switches have a relatively light actuation force. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Mini i has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Flaming Purple requires 47 grams to fully press the key, while the Mini i requires 50 grams. This makes the Flaming Purple the lighter option in terms of bottom out force, even though both switches have a light actuation force. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light touch, with the Mini i providing a slightly heavier bottom out force for users who prefer a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of traditional travel distances, making them popular choices for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may affect the feel of the switch when pressed. The Flaming Purple may provide a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Mini i, which might feel slightly more abrupt due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
The Flaming Purple TTC switch is characterized by a bassy and resonant sound profile, offering a unique auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch provides a neutral sound that is moderate and suitable for various settings. When it comes to feel, the Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light and effortless typing experience ideal for extended sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, giving a lively rebound sensation and comfortable typing feedback. Overall, while the Flaming Purple switch excels in providing a rich and engaging sound along with a light and effortless typing feel, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a more subtle sound and a bouncy typing experience perfect for professional environments. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a satisfying and efficient typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a touch of bassy undertones in sound, then the Flaming Purple switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer gentle tactility with a muted sound profile for quiet and professional environments, then the Gateron Mini i switch would be a suitable choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so it's important to consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and typing comfort when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two exceptional switches will depend on what aspects of typing experience matter most to you.
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