TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron Weightlessness

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact both typing experience and overall enjoyment. The TTC Flaming Purple stands out as a linear switch, celebrated for its resonant character and a sound signature that leans slightly towards the bassier spectrum, providing a delightful auditory experience with each keystroke. With a bottom-out force of just 47g, it offers featherlight actuation, making it a fantastic choice for enthusiasts seeking speed and a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness brings a tactile element to the table, featuring a subtle to moderate tactile bump that enhances feedback without being overwhelming. This makes it an appealing option for those who appreciate a more pronounced interaction with their keyboard, complemented by a balanced sound profile that harmonizes well with its tactile characteristics. While the Flaming Purple excels in delivering a swift and effortless typing experience, the Weightlessness provides a more engaging feedback sensation. 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 Weightlessness Tactile

$8.30

$4.30 per 10

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Flaming Purple and Gateron Weightlessness switches differ significantly in their choice of top housing materials, which profoundly influences the auditory experience each switch delivers. The Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is especially valuable for those who prioritize sound clarity and resonance in their typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness has a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory output. As a softer plastic, nylon tends to yield a more muffled sound when compared to the distinct notes produced by polycarbonate. Therefore, while the Flaming Purple caters to those who prefer a brighter, more articulate keystroke, the Weightlessness offers a warmer, more rounded auditory signature.

Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a sense of harmony in the sound profile they generate. The use of nylon in the bottom specifically adds a deeper resonance to both switches, enhancing the overall sound experience as it absorbs vibrations better than harder materials. Hence, regardless of the differences presented by their top housing, both the Flaming Purple and Weightlessness share that plush, muted sensation when bottoming out due to their nylon bottom components. The deeper sound produced by the nylon in both cases offers a sense of familiarity for users who appreciate a more subdued typing experience.

Ultimately, the distinct top housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and Gateron Weightlessness lead to a unique dichotomy in sound profiles while the consistent application of nylon in the bottom housing provides common ground. Those who lean towards the Flaming Purple will relish its crispness and clarity upon key release, while fans of the Gateron Weightlessness will enjoy the enveloping warmth of a full-bodied sound. The combination of both materials plays a critical role in shaping the keystroke feel and sound; thus, exploring these variations allows users to find their preferred typing experience. In conclusion, even if one enjoys the aspects of both switches, understanding how each material contributes to the overall sound can lead to a more tailored and satisfying keyboard setup.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch to the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the differences in actuation force are notable. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams, which is considered light, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience. However, the Weightlessness lacks a specified bottom out force since it is unavailable, while the Flaming Purple has a bottom out force of 47 grams. This means that the Flaming Purple switch not only has a lighter actuation force but also provides a clear measurement of bottoming out, aiding users in understanding the overall pressure needed when typing. Users looking for a lighter switch should opt for the Flaming Purple, while those who appreciate a heavier actuation force may find satisfaction in the Gateron Weightlessness.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The Flaming Purple has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option between the two, while the Weightlessness measures at 3.4 mm, resulting in a shorter travel distance. This difference may impact the feel and responsiveness of each switch. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances like that of the Weightlessness for quicker key actuation, which can enhance their performance. Conversely, the Flaming Purple's longer travel distance can provide a more substantial feel, appealing to those who favor a deeper and more tactile experience when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness and key feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stands out with its notably bassy and resonant character. This switch produces a deeper sound profile that engages typists with a soft poppy undertone, creating a warm and rich auditory experience during key presses. The low-pitched nature further emphasizes this depth, delivering a smooth, immersive sound that many enthusiasts find appealing. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch does not have a defined sound profile provided, making it challenging to compare directly. However, it's important to note that factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps can also significantly influence the overall auditory experience for both types of switches.

In terms of feel, the Flaming Purple switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring only a modest amount of force to actuate. This lightweight design minimizes finger fatigue, allowing for extended periods of comfortable typing, whether for gaming, work, or casual use. The silky smoothness enhances the typing experience, making it delightful and responsive to the touch. The Gateron Weightlessness switches, on the other hand, offer a subtle to moderate tactile feedback but lack further detailed descriptions of their feel, thereby leaving some uncertainty about their overall typing experience compared to the Flaming Purple.

Overall, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch excels in both sound and feel, with its distinctive bassy sound and exceptionally light actuation, the Gateron Weightlessness switch provides less concrete information but introduces a tactile element that may appeal to those who prefer a bit of feedback with each key press. If you're torn between these two switches, the Flaming Purple can deliver a more defined auditory and tactile experience, whereas the Weightlessness may offer satisfactory performance for those who enjoy tactile feedback. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize the engaging sound and effortless feel of the Flaming Purple or are curious about the subtleties offered by the tactile nature of the Weightlessness switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using them. If you value speed and have a light touch, the Flaming Purple’s 47-gram actuation force, combined with its feathery feel, makes it an excellent option for broad typing tasks and fast-paced gaming. Its bassy sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory dimension, making your keystrokes feel engaging and lively. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback in your typing experience without overwhelming resistance, the Gateron Weightlessness switch serves you well. Although its actuation force specifics are unavailable, the promise of subtle to moderate tactile feedback can enhance your typing satisfaction, particularly for general productivity tasks where you may want to feel each key press without excessive force. Therefore, if a smooth, lightweight experience with a lively sound is what you seek, go for the TTC Flaming Purple; however, if a balanced tactile sensation is your preference, then the Gateron Weightlessness will likely meet your needs.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flaming Purple Linear

$8.30

$4.30 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more