TTC Flame Red vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch. The Flame Red is renowned for its stunning light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, making them ideal for users who enjoy a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch stands out for its unique sound signature, combining chirpy and clacky elements to offer a balanced and distinctive typing experience. With a medium 50g actuation force, the Holly switch is perfect for users looking for a tactile response while typing. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Holly, it is clear that they have differing characteristics. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Holly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile attributed to its stiffer plastic makeup. This contrast in sound profiles is further emphasized by the aesthetic difference, with the translucent polycarbonate top housing of the Holly offering compatibility with RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Flame Red and Holly switches, they both feature nylon components that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality that is consistent across both switches. Despite having different top housing materials, the similarity in their bottom housing materials ensures a level of consistency in the typing experience, particularly in terms of the sound produced during key presses.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Flame Red and Holly switches highlights the impact that these components have on sound profiles. While the Flame Red's nylon housing creates a more muted and rounded sound, the Holly's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and more resonant tone. However, both switches maintain a deep and full sound profile due to their shared nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the Flame Red and Holly switches will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics and aesthetic features.
Weight
Comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it is evident that the Flame Red is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Holly. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Holly has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of the Flame Red requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the higher actuation force of the Holly may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the Flame Red provides a gentler typing experience, while the Holly offers a more robust and tactile typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch is 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that both provide a similar experience in terms of the distance they travel from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Flame Red or the Holly switch, you can expect to get the same level of keypress distance when typing or gaming. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is consistent, providing a comfortable and familiar feel for users regardless of which option they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Flame Red switch offers a neutral profile suitable for various use cases, providing a moderate actuation force and sound level that can appeal to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch brings a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements to the table, creating a distinct sound signature that sets it apart from others. The chirpy sound adds a playful touch, while the clacky nature brings a sharp and snappy quality to the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the overall sound profile desired for the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch is known for its mild and polished characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek and comfortable key press. Conversely, information on the feel of the Dareu Holly switch is not provided in the available data. However, based on the actuation force and sound profile described, one can infer that the tactile nature of the Holly switch may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the smooth linear feel of the Flame Red switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and potentially feel. While the Flame Red offers a neutral sound profile with a weighty smoothness, perfect for those seeking a balanced experience, the Dareu Holly switch introduces a chirpy and clacky sound signature that can cater to users looking for a more distinctive typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between TTC Flame Red linear switches and Dareu Holly tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that offers a weighty smoothness, a clacky sound profile, and is best suited for backlit, RGB keyboards, then the Flame Red would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium actuation force for a balanced and distinctive typing experience, then the Holly switch would be the better option for you. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and visual aesthetics when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
