TTC Flaming Purple vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy contenders are the TTC Flaming Purple and the Huano Strawberry Latte, both linear switches that cater to different typing preferences. The TTC Flaming Purple is celebrated for its resonant character, offering a unique auditory experience with a slightly bassy sound profile that adds a poppy undertone to each keypress. This, combined with its feathery touch and a low 47g bottom-out force, makes it an excellent choice for those who value both swift and engaging typing experiences. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte stands out with its super smooth operation, crafted from the latest molds for precision and consistency. It strikes a balanced sound profile that sits comfortably between quiet and overly resonant, making it versatile for both typing and gaming without overwhelming the senses. Each switch offers distinct qualities that could enhance your keyboard experience in different ways; 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
40g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Huano Strawberry Latte, it is evident that both switches employ a unique blend of materials that significantly influence their acoustic properties and tactile performance. The top housing of the Flaming Purple utilizes polycarbonate, a material known for its rigidity and translucence, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile when typing. This results in a distinctive and vibrant auditory experience, especially beneficial for users seeking to enhance RGB lighting effects due to its clear nature. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte features a top housing made of POK, or polyketone. While POK excels in smoothness and durability—with a very low coefficient of friction that promotes seamless key presses—it delivers a more clacky auditory signature compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Thus, while both materials offer a high-quality typing experience, their acoustic properties diverge, reflecting the distinct characteristics they bring to the overall sound profile of each switch.
Examining the bottom housings, both the TTC Flaming Purple and Huano Strawberry Latte use nylon, a material recognized for its sound-absorbing qualities. The use of nylon leads to a full and deep sound profile, as this softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder alternatives. This shared characteristic means that typing on either switch will result in a deeper, rounder sound when bottoming out. Since this aspect of the sound is primarily influenced by the bottom housing, users can expect a similar auditory experience when pressing either switch down, regardless of the differences brought by their respective top housing materials. Hence, both switches offer a satisfying acoustic response that would appeal to users who appreciate a fuller sound when typing.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the TTC Flaming Purple and Huano Strawberry Latte allows them to complement each other, creating rich, layered auditory experiences. The polycarbonate and POK top housings provide distinct highs and clarity, while the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent and warm sound profile characterized by depth and fullness. Users looking for a personalized typing experience will appreciate how these switches balance each other, influencing the sound and feel when typing. While the upper housing materials create uniqueness in sonic quality, the similarity in the nylon bottom ensures that the core auditory attributes remain sharply defined across the two models, highlighting the importance of material selection in keyboard switch design.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, we find a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Flaming Purple requires an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Strawberry Latte is lighter at 35 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter keypress, the Strawberry Latte may offer a more comfortable typing experience, especially for extended use during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In terms of bottom out force, the Flaming Purple has a bottom out pressure of 47 grams, which is slightly higher than the Strawberry Latte's 45 grams. Both switches are considered light, but the Strawberry Latte stands out as the lighter option overall. Users seeking a more substantial typing experience might be inclined toward the Flaming Purple due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, while those wanting a softer touch would benefit from the Strawberry Latte. Overall, both switches provide distinct feels that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning they provide an identical feel when pressing down on a key. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will experience comparable actuation depths and resistance when using either switch. Consequently, keyboard enthusiasts looking for a consistent typing experience will find that both switches perform similarly in this respect. Since their travel distances are equal, users can confidently choose either switch based on other preferences such as sound, feel, or aesthetic design.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 sound profile of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is characterized by its resonant and bassy qualities. When typing, the Flaming Purple provides a richer auditory experience, with a slightly poppy undertone that adds a unique flair to each keystroke. This low-pitched, resonant sound creates an immersive typing atmosphere, perfect for users who enjoy a more engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte features a balanced sound profile that is not overly quiet or excessively resonant, leaning towards a more harmonious auditory experience. While both switches have their merits, the Flaming Purple undoubtedly leans more towards a deeper and richer sound, making it ideal for those looking for a bolder audio signature.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch stands out with its exceptionally feathery touch. With a bottom-out force of only 47g, it demands minimal exertion, allowing for effortless, fatigue-free typing even during prolonged sessions. The Silkiness of the Flaming Purple switch enhances the overall typing experience, ensuring a smooth transition from key to key. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the Huano Strawberry Latte are not detailed, leaving a gap in the comparison for tactile sensation. However, both switches presumably cater to users seeking comfort and ease during use.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches present distinct auditory experiences, with the former emphasizing a richer, bass-heavy sound while the latter offers a balanced profile. The Flaming Purple also excels in its feathery and smooth feel, supporting extended typing sessions comfortably. While the Strawberry Latte's tactile feel remains unspecified, users can expect both switches to deliver satisfying performance. Ultimately, a choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding sound and the tactile sensation one desires in their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Flaming Purple and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are looking for a switch that is not only light but also offers a unique auditory experience, the Flaming Purple is an excellent choice. Its bassy and resonant sound profile adds an engaging element to your typing, making it particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a lively sound while they work or game. The feathery and silky feel of the Flaming Purple further enhances its appeal, especially for prolonged typing sessions where comfort and reduced finger fatigue are paramount. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother, more balanced typing experience without any distinctive sound signature, the Strawberry Latte might be more suitable for you. This switch combines a light touch with a well-rounded sound profile, making it versatile for various typing tasks while maintaining a more neutral auditory environment. In essence, choose the Flaming Purple for an engaging sound and a light, effortless feel, and opt for the Strawberry Latte if you favor a smooth typing experience that leans towards versatility and subtlety.
Mentioned in this article
