TTC Flaming Purple vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options stand out: the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. The Flaming Purple is renowned for its resonant character, offering a slightly bassier sound signature that adds a poppy undertone to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crunchy and polished typing experience. The Flaming Purple is praised for its feathery nature and easy-to-press feel, making it a great choice for both enthusiasts and daily typists. Conversely, the Phoenix offers a crystalline and sparkling typing experience that is sure to appeal to those who enjoy a distinct clicky switch. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Purple and the Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the polycarbonate top housing material, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the switch's sound and feel, as it affects the bottom-out sound and impact when a key is pressed. The Flaming Purple's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience for enthusiasts looking for specific sound profiles and aesthetics.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the TTC Flaming Purple and the Outemu Phoenix can greatly impact the overall typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, their bottom housings differ in material and resulting sound characteristics. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Flaming Purple or the crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Phoenix, enthusiasts have the opportunity to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the Flaming Purple is lighter overall. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the Phoenix has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Flaming Purple requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down compared to the Phoenix. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Flaming Purple, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue, perfect for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Phoenix may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the Flaming Purple has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6mm compared to the 3.3mm travel distance of the Phoenix. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches. If you prefer a bit more depth and cushion when typing, you may lean towards the Flaming Purple switch. On the other hand, if you prioritize quick and responsive key presses, the Outemu Phoenix switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to traditional options, providing a modern and efficient typing 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 Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is best known for its resonant character, offering a slightly bassier sound profile that adds an engaging flair to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling sound and feel. The Flaming Purple's feathery nature makes typing swift and effortless with a bottom-out force of just 47g, appealing to enthusiasts and daily typists. In contrast, the Phoenix's polished feel ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction, offering a sleek typing experience. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a deeper, richer sound and a light, easy-to-press feel, the Flaming Purple would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a crunchy sound profile and a polished, smooth key feel, the Outemu Phoenix would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it's important to consider your preferences for key feel and sound. If you enjoy a feathery, easy-to-press switch with a bassy and resonant sound profile, the Flaming Purple may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a polished switch with a crunchy and distinctive click sound, the Phoenix could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to determine what type of typing experience you value most before making a decision.
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