TTC Flaming Purple vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Flaming Purple and the Cherry MX Purple RGB can significantly affect your typing experience. The TTC Flaming Purple stands out as a linear switch, renowned for its resonant character and a unique bassy sound signature that adds a lively auditory flair to each keystroke. With its feather-light actuation force of just 47g, it offers a swift and effortless feel, making it an attractive option for both enthusiasts and daily typists seeking a smooth and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a tactile experience characterized by a medium-strength bump, designed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses. This tactile feedback allows for precise actuation, catering to users who prefer a bit more resistance and clear feedback with every key press, enhancing their typing rhythm. While both switches have their distinct advantages—whether you prioritize the smoothness of a linear switch or the reassuring tactile feedback of a tactile switch—each offers a unique experience tailored 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
45g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, a distinct contrast is present in their top housings. The Flaming Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is notably stiffer and results in a sharper, crisper sound profile. This choice lends itself well to RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the illumination effect, making it more visually appealing for users. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, known for its softer and more forgiving nature. This results in a deeper and rounder sound profile, which can make typing feel more cushioned, although it may not deliver the same level of brightness in sound or aesthetics when paired with RGB lighting.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, are aligned in material choice as they both utilize nylon. This shared decision plays a significant role in achieving a uniform sound experience across the board. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound more effectively, contributing to a fuller typing experience. In both switches, the nylon's ability to dampen sound helps create a more muted acoustic character and influences the overall feel when bottoming out a key. As a result, both the Flaming Purple and Cherry MX Purple RGB can provide a satisfying and rich typing sound, despite their differences in top housing material.
Overall, the variation in top housing materials between the TTC Flaming Purple and Cherry MX Purple RGB leads to contrasting sound profiles, while their shared nylon bottom housing promotes consistency in overall auditory experience. For users seeking a sharper and clearer response, the Flaming Purple would be an ideal choice; on the other hand, those preferring a deeper and softer sound may lean toward the Cherry MX Purple RGB. If one is looking for similar auditory results, pairing a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing—similar to how these two switches are constructed—can yield analogous sound qualities while catering to individual preferences for typing feel and acoustic characteristics.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch exhibit differences in actuation force, which impacts user experience based on personal preferences regarding weight. The Flaming Purple requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it suitable for prolonged use without fatigue, ideal for both office work and extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel and tactile feedback for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. However, the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unknown, leaving some uncertainty in its performance at full depression. Overall, while both switches offer unique attributes, the Flaming Purple is the lighter option, making it more favorable for those seeking ease during lengthy typing activities.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Flaming Purple provides a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for users who favor rapid key presses, such as gamers. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key feel and deeper engagement with each keystroke. While both switches are designed to cater to different preferences, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes speed versus a hearty tactile experience.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Purple switch presents a unique auditory profile that is bassy and low-pitched, lending a deep richness to each keystroke. This resonant character, highlighted by a poppy undertone, enhances the overall typing experience with a lively and engaging sound, making the act of typing not just functional but enjoyable. In contrast, information about the sound characteristics of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch is unknown, so it’s difficult to compare directly. However, it is essential to remember that the sound of any switch can also greatly depend on the keyboard construction, including the choice of board and keycaps, meaning both could potentially offer distinct auditory experiences based on their environment.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple excels with its feathery and silky action, characterized by a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This makes it particularly appealing for those who type for long periods, whether for gaming, school, or work, as the effortless key presses contribute to a smooth and comfortable typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB's tactile qualities are not detailed, leaving a gap in understanding how it might compare, especially since tactile feedback can significantly influence typing dynamics.
In conclusion, while the TTC Flaming Purple is well-defined in both its sound and feel attributes—offering an engaging auditory experience alongside a comfortable and responsive typing action—the Cherry MX Purple RGB remains a mystery in terms of both sound and tactile feedback. If you’re drawn to the character of the Flaming Purple, you can expect a unique and pleasant typing experience. However, for the Cherry MX Purple RGB, you might want to explore further or try them out before making a commitment, as its qualities remain unspecified.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use cases. If you lean towards a lighter actuation force for rapid typing or gaming, the 47g bottom-out force of the Flaming Purple makes it an ideal choice, providing a feathery and silky feel that minimizes finger fatigue during long sessions. Its resonant and bassy sound signature adds a unique auditory charm that can enhance your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback with a refined bump for a more pronounced typing experience, especially useful for typing-intensive tasks or programming, the tactile feature of the Cherry MX Purple RGB might serve you better, as it allows for more deliberate keystrokes. Consider the nature of your work and play: if speed and smoothness are your main pursuits, go with the Flaming Purple, but if you value tactile feedback in your keystrokes, the Cherry MX Purple RGB will meet those needs effectively. Your choice will ultimately shape your daily interactions with your keyboard, so select the switch that aligns best with your typing style and audio preferences.
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