TTC Flaming Purple vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Flaming Purple and the Outemu Black are both linear switches, but they offer slightly different features and characteristics. The Flaming Purple is known for its resonant character, creating a bassier sound signature that adds a poppy undertone to each keystroke. With a light bottom-out force of 47g, it offers a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Black does not have any specific standout features mentioned. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that may 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
65g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Outemu Black switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. This means that both switches will provide a similar sound experience when typing, with the top housing playing a significant role in sound production upon key release.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Flaming Purple utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature absorbing more sound. Conversely, the Outemu Black also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound experience to the Flaming Purple. This means that both switches will share a common quality in their bottom-out sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder bottom housing materials.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the TTC Flaming Purple and the Outemu Black switches results in a unique typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound upon key release, the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite their differences, both switches offer a balance of sharpness and depth in sound, with the choice of housing materials contributing to the overall tactile experience of typing on these switches.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 47 grams compared to the Outemu Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Flaming Purple make it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience and enjoy typing for extended periods of time without strain. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Black switch provide a more substantial typing feel, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Flaming Purple offering a lighter touch and the Outemu Black delivering a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Black's 4 mm. The Flaming Purple's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Black's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress feel for those who prefer depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether the user prioritizes speed or a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different travel distances, catering to a variety of user preferences.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stands out for its bassier and resonant sound profile, adding an engaging flair to each keystroke. Its feathery and easy-to-press nature, with a low bottom-out force of 47g, ensures swift and effortless typing experiences, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, there is limited information available for the Outemu Black linear switch, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the qualities described for the Flaming Purple, it can be inferred that the Outemu Black may offer similar results in terms of sound characteristics and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Outemu Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a more engaging auditory experience with a touch of bass undertones, then the TTC Flaming Purple with its 47g bottom-out force and resonant character may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a more traditional linear feel, the Outemu Black with its 82g bottom-out force may suit your preferences better. Consider factors such as sound profile, actuation force, and overall typing comfort to choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience the most. Ultimately, the choice between the Flaming Purple and Black switches will depend on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.