TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Type L mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Flaming Purple is renowned for its bassier sound signature and feathery feel, with a bottom-out force of just 47g, providing a resonant and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L from Gateron is recognized for its neutral sound profile and light touch, requiring only 45g to bottom out. While both switches offer a feathery and easy-to-press feel, the Flaming Purple leans towards a low-pitched, poppy undertone, while the Type L delivers a more subdued and elegant sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Flaming Purple Linear

Gateron Type L Linear

$8.30

$4.30 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Type L, a clear distinction can be seen in their top housing materials. While the Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Type L's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material is praised for its stiffness, leading to a more resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, the choice between a sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate and a deeper, fuller sound of nylon depends on the user's preference for sound characteristics.

Moving on to the bottom housing materials of these switches, both the Flaming Purple and the Type L utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This classic switch housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. With nylon's ability to produce a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, users can expect a consistent sound profile when pressing down on keys, regardless of whether they are using the Flaming Purple or the Type L switches.

Overall, while the top housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Type L offer contrasting sound profiles, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The differences between the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate and the deeper, fuller sound of nylon can be observed in the top housing, influencing the sound when pressing down and releasing keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound characteristics, whether it be a more resonant and clear sound or a deeper and fuller sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches provide a lighter typing experience compared to many other switches on the market. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find either of these switches to be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a bit more resistance and a firmer typing feel, they may want to explore switches with a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking to achieve.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, even a fraction of a millimeter can make a noticeable impact on the feel of typing or gaming. In general, a shorter travel distance results in quicker response times, making it preferred by gamers looking for speed and efficiency. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keypress with a sense of depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style. If you're looking for a quicker and more responsive experience, the Flaming Purple may be the better option, but if you prefer a more deliberate and substantial keypress, the Type L could be the way to go.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Flaming Purple switch offers a bassier and resonant tone, adding a poppy undertone to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch delivers a sound signature that elegantly veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, with a more neutral and subdued profile. Depending on personal preference, the Flaming Purple switch may provide a more engaging auditory experience with its bassier undertones, while the Type L switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile suitable for various environments.

Moving on to feel, both the Flaming Purple and the Type L switches are described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feathery nature of these switches allows for swift and effortless typing, making them comfortable for enthusiasts and daily typists alike. Additionally, the silky smooth typing experience provided by the Flaming Purple switch further enhances the overall typing feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. With both switches offering similar qualities in terms of feel, users can expect a light and comfortable typing experience with minimal finger strain.

Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flaming Purple stands out with its bassier and resonant sound profile, coupled with a feathery and silky smooth typing feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more engaging auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Type L switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, along with a feathery and easy-to-press feel that suits a variety of typing environments. Ultimately, users can expect a pleasant and comfortable typing experience with either switch, with slight variations in sound and feel to cater to individual preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in sound and feel. If you are seeking a switch with a slightly bassier sound profile and a touch of poppy undertones, the TTC Flaming Purple may be the perfect fit for you. Its feathery nature and swift typing experience make it ideal for enthusiasts and daily typists alike. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Type L could be the right choice for you. Its light bottom out force and subdued sound make it suitable for various typing purposes. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth and comfortable typing experience, so choose based on your sound and feel preferences.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flaming Purple Linear

$8.30

$4.30 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more