TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and Outemu Lotus both offer a linear typing experience, but with some key differences. The Flame Red is renowned for its striking light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard setup. Typing on these switches provides a satisfyingly smooth and clacky sound profile, with a weighty feel to each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus does not have a standout feature like the light diffuser of the Flame Red. However, it offers a different typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a more simplistic switch. While the Flame Red is categorized as neutral, mild, polished, the Lotus does not have a defined category. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Lotus switches utilize nylon as their housing material, leading to a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. This common material choice ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, making both switches suitable options for those seeking a quieter typing experience.
However, the Flame Red and Lotus switches may differ in their design and construction, leading to subtle variations in their overall performance. The distribution of the nylon top and bottom housing in a switch can impact the sound and feel experienced during typing. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these nuances can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for typing feedback and sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Lotus switches may come down to individual preferences regarding typing feel and sound. While both switches feature nylon housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, small design differences can lead to unique typing experiences. Users looking for a silent and consistent typing experience may find both switches suitable, but those who value specific characteristics such as bottom-out sound or release sound may prefer one switch over the other based on their preferences.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams. This means that the Flame Red switch requires a bit more force to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Flame Red switch requires 54 grams, while the Lotus switch requires 50 grams. This makes the Lotus switch slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out. In terms of weight, the Flame Red switch can be considered medium-light, while the Lotus switch is on the lighter side. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus switch, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Flame Red switch. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces may cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch is 4.0mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. This means that the Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. The Flame Red switch is more traditional in terms of travel distance, offering a deeper press, while the Lotus switch is shallower, making it more suitable for those looking for a quick response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Flame Red providing a more deliberate key press, and the Lotus offering a quicker and more abrupt feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press responsiveness.
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 Outemu Lotus comes in at $3.10 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 it comes to sound, the Flame Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. The Lotus switch, on the other hand, has no specific sound description available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Flame Red is known for providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle and smooth typing feel, thanks to the refined finish of the switch. The Lotus switch, unfortunately, does not have any specific information regarding its feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch stands out for its backlit capabilities with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, making it a great option for those who prioritize visual aesthetics and a tactile typing experience. While the Outemu Lotus linear switch may have its own strengths, such as an unknown sound and feel profile, it is important to consider all available information before making a decision. In general, since both switches are linear, users can expect similar smooth actuation and lack of tactile bump or audible click, but the individual characteristics of each switch should still be taken into account for the best overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a visually stunning switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be the way to go, especially if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more gentle typing experience, the Outemu Lotus linear switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and visual aesthetics. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when choosing between the two.
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