TTC Flame Red vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, both of which are linear switches. The Flame Red is renowned for its visual appeal and is particularly suited for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard thanks to its dazzling light diffuser. Typing on the Flame Reds offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemons showcase the potential of a linear switch with their progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, resulting in a buttery smooth typing experience. These switches offer a low-pitched sound profile and a neutral, mild feel. However, let's delve deeper beyond these general observations to help make an informed decision about the most suitable switch for individual preferences.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer plastic and ability to absorb more sound. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon top housings. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing, which is relatively stiffer compared to nylon. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the fact that polycarbonate is translucent makes it particularly suitable for use with RGB lighting.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Flame Red and Sea Salt Lemon switches use nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature and increased sound absorption. As a result, both switches offer a similar duller and rounder sound when typing. However, while the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when releasing a key.

Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches share the qualities provided by a nylon bottom housing. This means that users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on either the Flame Red or the Sea Salt Lemon. However, the choice between the two switches will depend on the desired sound characteristics, as the Flame Red's nylon top housing offers a duller and rounder sound while the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, if RGB lighting is a priority, the Sea Salt Lemon may be a more preferable option due to its translucent polycarbonate top housing.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches, there are similarities and slight differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This ensures that users will get a similar tactile response when typing on either switch. In terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red switch has a slightly higher force of 54 grams compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's 53 grams. This indicates that the Flame Red switch will provide a slightly firmer typing experience when fully pressed down.

Considering the weight of the switches, both have a medium-light force overall. This can be favorable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. These lighter switches are well-suited for keyboards used during work or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel, opting for switches with heavier forces would be more suitable. While the Flame Red and Sea Salt Lemon switches have slight differences in their bottom out force, both fall within the medium-light range, ensuring that users would get similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences and the desired feel while typing.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that they both travel the same distance from the top to the bottom, giving users a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys. Whether you choose the Flame Red or the Sea Salt Lemon, you can expect to get equally satisfying results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means it has a balanced sound that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use in various environments such as at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch produces a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Flame Red, the Sea Salt Lemon also has a neutral sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red switch offers a mild typing experience with a weighty smoothness. This means that typing on these switches feels gentle and approachable, making it suitable for most users. Moreover, the Flame Reds have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a mild typing experience with a buttery smoothness. Although specific details about its feel are not mentioned, it can be inferred that the Sea Salt Lemons offer a similar gentle and approachable typing experience as the Flame Reds.

Overall, both the TTC Flame Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer desirable qualities for linear switch enthusiasts. While the Flame Reds are visually appealing with their dazzling light diffuser, they provide a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemons showcase KTT's dry-lube design and progressive spring, resulting in a buttery smooth typing experience. In terms of sound, both switches have a neutral profile with moderate actuation force requirements. Similarly, they both offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preferences in terms of visual aesthetics and subtle differences in feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize visuals and want a switch that is perfect for a backlit, RGB keyboard, then the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the best choice for you. Not only does it offer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, but it also features a dazzling light diffuser that enhances the visual experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience, then the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is the way to go. With its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, it provides a lovely representation of what a linear switch can be. In terms of sound, the Flame Red is a neutral switch suitable for most intents and purposes, while the Sea Salt Lemon offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. As for feel, both switches fall into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience. However, the Flame Red is also described as polished, resulting in a sleeker and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches will depend on your specific preferences and priorities.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more