TTC Flaming Purple vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices to compare and contrast are the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch. The Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant and bassier sound profile, offering a touch of poppy undertone with its feathery 47g bottom-out force. This makes it a swift and effortless typing experience sought after by both enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, the Plum switch is known for its unique weightiness without a significant tactile bump, providing a more neutral and enjoyable sound profile. While the Flaming Purple is categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Easy-to-press', the Plum is characterized as 'Neutral' and 'Mild'. 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
70g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Overall, both the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh Plum switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more resonant sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound that can enhance the typing experience.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, there may be slight variations in the sound and feel between the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh Plum. The difference in material composition between the top and bottom housing can lead to a split in the qualities each housing material brings to the switch. This means that the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This subtle variation in material combination can result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, both the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh Plum switches offer a unique typing experience due to their combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. While they share similarities in sound profiles and material composition, the slight differences between the top and bottom housing materials may result in a nuanced variation in typing feel. Both switches provide a clear and resonant sound profile, with polycarbonate contributing to the sharpness and clarity of the sound, while nylon adds a deeper and fuller sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, the actuation force of the Flaming Purple is 42 grams, which is lighter than the Plum's unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Flaming Purple is 47 grams, while the Plum requires 70 grams to bottom out, making it the heavier option. The Flaming Purple switch is perfect for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue. In contrast, the Plum switch offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys with either of these switches. The 3.6 mm travel distance allows for a comfortable typing experience without requiring excessive force to actuate the keys. Both switches offer a smooth and consistent feel, making them suitable options for typing or gaming purposes. Overall, the Flaming Purple and Plum switches provide a similar travel distance and typing experience for users.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Purple offers a bassy and low-pitched experience with a resonant quality, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This engaging auditory flair adds a unique touch to each keystroke, appealing to those who appreciate a more dynamic sound experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is neutral and enjoyable, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for a wide range of uses. Depending on personal preference, the Flaming Purple may be preferred for its bassier and more resonant sound, while the Plum switch provides a more versatile and universally pleasant acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and silky, providing a light and effortless typing experience. With minimal exertion required, this switch is comfortable for extended typing sessions and reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Kailh Plum switch is mild and stepped, offering a gentler typing experience with a more approachable feel. While the Flaming Purple may be preferred for its light and smooth typing feel, the Plum switch caters to those who enjoy a more subtle tactile feedback during typing.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flaming Purple excels in providing a bassy, resonant sound profile and a feathery, easy-to-press typing experience, appealing to those who seek a dynamic and light typing feel. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, stepped typing experience, catering to individuals who prefer a more subtle tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with their distinct qualities.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light and effortless typing feel with a poppy undertone and bassier sound profile, the Flaming Purple may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a unique tactile experience that feels slightly hefty but lacks a pronounced tactile bump, the Plum switch might suit your typing style better. Consider your desired bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision on which switch would enhance your typing experience the most.
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