TTC Flaming Purple vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple and the TTC Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant character and slightly bassier sound profile, giving each keystroke a poppy undertone that adds an engaging flair. With its feathery nature and easy 47g bottom-out force, it appeals to both enthusiasts and daily typists seeking a swift and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red is praised for its smooth and seamless typing experience, perfect for those who value a muted sound profile for office or shared living spaces. Its consistent feel throughout and padded bottom-out provide maximum comfort during extended typing sessions. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision in choosing the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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 material of the TTC Flaming Purple and the TTC Silent Red switches share many similarities due to both featuring polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as it is a relatively stiff plastic that resonates well. This material is especially useful in switches with RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. However, the differences arise in their bottom housings, with the Flaming Purple featuring a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Red also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the Flaming Purple and Silent Red switches offer a distinct typing experience due to their different bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Flaming Purple creates a duller and rounder sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a unique typing sensation. In comparison, the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing also aims to produce a deeper and fuller sound, showcasing the impact of housing material on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Flaming Purple and Silent Red switches showcases the importance of housing materials in creating a desired typing experience. While both switches offer a clear and resonant sound profile with their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials contribute to distinct sound and feel characteristics during typing. Whether experiencing the deeper and fuller sound of the Flaming Purple or the similarly impactful sound of the Silent Red, housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall switch experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is 42 grams, while the actuation force of the TTC Silent Red linear switch is slightly higher at 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Flaming Purple requires 47 grams, which is lighter compared to the Silent Red's 63.5 grams, making it a heavier switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Flaming Purple switch, which allows for longer typing sessions and smoother keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel may lean towards the Silent Red switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, and choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Flaming Purple being slightly shorter than the Silent Red. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Flaming Purple due to its shorter travel distance. However, some users may find the abruptness of a shorter travel distance less satisfying compared to the slightly longer travel distance of the Silent Red. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing quick and responsive typing experiences.
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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 slightly resonant sound profile, adding a poppy undertone to every keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch provides a muted sound, making it perfect for quiet environments such as offices or shared living spaces. The Flaming Purple's bassier tone may appeal to those looking for a richer sound experience, while the Silent Red's muted profile caters to those seeking a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force and a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is characterized as buttery and polished, providing a seamless and refined typing sensation. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Flaming Purple may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch, while the Silent Red may appeal to those who prefer a more uniform and polished feel. Again, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flaming Purple and TTC Silent Red linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Flaming Purple excels in providing a bassier and resonant sound with a feathery typing feel, while the Silent Red delivers a muted sound and a buttery, polished feel. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on whether you prioritize sound richness and light actuation force (Flaming Purple) or quietness and smooth keystrokes (Silent Red). Experimenting with both switches on different boards and keycaps will help determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a unique sound profile with a touch of bass and a feathery typing experience, the Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if a muted sound profile and a smooth, consistent typing feel are more appealing to you, the Silent Red could be the perfect fit. Consider your environment, typing style, and desired auditory and tactile experience when making your decision. Both switches offer their own set of qualities and benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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