TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Type S stand out as excellent options, both offering unique features and characteristics. The TTC Flaming Purple is praised for its resonant and bassy sound signature, making each keystroke engaging and enjoyable. With a feather-light bottom-out force of 47g, it provides a swift and effortless typing experience, appealing to both enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, with a slightly heavier 65g bottom-out for those who prefer a weightier feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Type S switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This similarity means that both switches will elicit a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, with a duller and rounder sound profile. However, the housing materials of the top housings differ significantly, with the Flaming Purple utilizing polycarbonate for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Type S features a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in top housing materials will result in a noticeable difference in the sound when releasing a key between the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gateron Type S with its nylon top housing may not be as visually appealing as the TTC Flaming Purple with its translucent polycarbonate top housing, which is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the Flaming Purple gives it a clear and transparent look, making it more attractive for users looking to enhance their keyboard setup with customizable lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Type S may have a more classic and understated appearance, focusing more on the tactile typing experience rather than visual aesthetics.
Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the Flaming Purple creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon material in the Type S produces a deeper and fuller sound. While the bottom housings of both switches contribute to a similar typing experience, the contrast in top housing materials gives each switch its own distinctive sound profile and visual appeal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flaming Purple has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 47 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type S has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. The Flaming Purple offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Type S provides a more tactile and solid keystroke for users who prefer a heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Type S linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Flaming Purple may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Type S with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, offering different options for users based on their personal preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Flaming Purple or the Type S, you can expect a satisfactory key press experience with similar results.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple offers a more bassy and resonant sound profile, with a touch of poppy undertone that adds an engaging flair to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Type S provides a more neutral and subdued sound experience, catering to those who prefer a more balanced and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Flaming Purple leaning towards a deeper and richer sound profile, while the Type S provides a more moderate and subtle sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and silky, offering an exceptionally light and smooth typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances typing comfort. With a bottom-out weight of just 47g, this switch is perfect for enthusiasts and daily typists looking for a swift and effortless typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is not available at this time.
Overall, while the Flaming Purple switch excels in providing a unique and engaging sound profile with a feathery and silky typing feel, the Gateron Type S offers a more neutral sound experience and a weightier keystroke, catering to those who prefer a more balanced and traditional typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 47 grams and enjoy a slightly bassier sound profile with a touch of poppy undertones, the TTC Flaming Purple is a suitable choice for swift and effortless typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a bottom-out force of 65 grams and a sound signature that strikes a pleasing balance leaning towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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