TTC Flaming Purple vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flaming Purple and the Jwick Taro offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The TTC Flaming Purple is a linear switch known for its resonant and slightly bassier sound profile, making each keystroke engaging with a touch of poppy undertones. With its feathery feel and easy-to-press nature, it appeals to enthusiasts and daily typists looking for a swift and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, provides a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Flaming Purple is characterized by its low-pitched and resonant qualities, the Taro offers a neutral and buttery typing feel. Both switches have their unique features that cater to different preferences, but diving deeper into their nuances will help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Jwick Taro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it suitable for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, adding a visual aesthetic to the auditory experience. However, despite the similarities in material choice, the nuances in design between the Flaming Purple and the Taro may result in slightly different sound profiles.
On the other hand, both the Flaming Purple and the Taro employ nylon for their bottom housing material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This softer plastic material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder typing experience. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, contributing to the overall tactile feedback of the switch. While both switches share this characteristic, the specific design of each housing may still lead to subtle variations in typing feel and sound.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be divided between the top and bottom housing of a switch. The bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division highlights how the construction of a switch can affect the overall typing experience, even when utilizing similar housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the Flaming Purple and the Taro will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is clear that the Flaming Purple is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams. On the other hand, the Taro switch is the heavier choice with a bottom out force of 67 grams, although the actuation force is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Flaming Purple switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Taro switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, providing a diverse range of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users looking for fast response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, as both are relatively short. If you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance, the Flaming Purple may be the better option, while the Taro offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, making either a solid choice for users looking for a more responsive 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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, giving each keystroke a poppy undertone that adds an engaging auditory flair. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile with acute and crisp clacks, offering a cozy typing experience. The Flaming Purple delivers a deeper and richer sound profile, while the Taro offers a moderate sound suitable for various purposes. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, the Flaming Purple linear switch is characterized by its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal exertion and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It offers a silky typing experience that enhances overall smoothness. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a buttery and stepped typing sensation, offering a seamless and uniform keystroke experience with mild tactility. The distinct tactile feel of the Taro switch stands out compared to the light and effortless typing experience of the Flaming Purple switch.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Flaming Purple excels in producing a bassier and more resonant sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, the Taro provides a neutral sound profile with crisp clacks and a buttery, stepped typing sensation. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the engaging auditory flair of the Flaming Purple or the cozy and tactile typing experience of the Taro.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is important to focus on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a lighter touch and a slightly bassier sound profile, the Flaming Purple might be the ideal choice for you. The feathery nature of the Flaming Purple with its bottom out force of 47 grams provides a swift and effortless typing experience suitable for enthusiasts and everyday typists. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a cozy typing experience with medium-level tactility, the Taro switches could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your individual preferences and typing needs.
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