TTC Flaming Purple vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, two distinct typing experiences come to mind. The Flaming Purple is praised for its resonant and slightly bassy sound signature, with an easy-to-press bottom-out of just 47g, making it ideal for both enthusiasts and daily typists looking for a feathery typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches offer a heavy and sharp clickiness, providing an invigorating and crunchy typing feel. While these general descriptions offer insight into the characteristics of each switch, it's worth delving deeper into the nuances to determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
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
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh Sage share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. With similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housing, users can expect comparable sound profiles from both the Flaming Purple and the Sage switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Flaming Purple features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage also utilizes a nylon bottom housing with similar sound characteristics. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will elicit a different typing experience compared to switches with other housing materials, creating a unique sound profile for users to enjoy.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combination of different housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. With the Flaming Purple and the Sage switches incorporating both polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials, users can expect a well-rounded typing experience with a mix of sharper, crisper sounds and deeper, fuller tones. Ultimately, the choice between the Flaming Purple and the Kailh Sage will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see some notable differences. The Flaming Purple has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 47 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Sage would be the better choice due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the Flaming Purple provides a lighter typing experience, while the Sage offers a more substantial and tactile feel for users who prefer a heavier switch.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that typing on either switch will provide a consistent feel and feedback to the user. The identical travel distance of both switches allows for a uniform typing experience, regardless of which one is being used.
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 Sage 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a bassier and resonant typing experience, providing a poppy undertone with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as having a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique auditory qualities, with the Flaming Purple leaning towards a deeper and richer sound profile, while the Sage delivers a sharp and distinctive clickiness. The choice between the two would largely depend on personal preference for sound during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Sage switch, on the other hand, is described as invigorating and sharp, providing pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force for a reactive typing sensation. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, with the Flaming Purple focusing on smoothness and lightness, while the Sage emphasizes feedback and firmness. Choosing between the two would depend on whether one prefers a light and smooth typing feel or a more tactile and firm response.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The Flaming Purple offers a bassier and resonant sound profile paired with a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a smooth and effortless typing feel. On the other hand, the Sage switch provides a crisp and crunchy sound along with an invigorating and sharp tactile response, catering to users who prefer a tactile and firm typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel, as both switches offer excellent performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between TTC Flaming Purple linear switches and Kailh Sage clicky switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and feathery typing experience with a touch of a poppy undertone in sound, then the Flaming Purple linear switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier typing feel with a sharp clickiness and pronounced feedback, the Kailh Sage clicky switches may be more suitable for you. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that suits your needs best.
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