TTC Flame Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, some key differences become apparent. The Flame Red is praised for its stunning light diffuser that makes it ideal for backlit, RGB keyboards, while also offering a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump that provides a satisfying typing experience, along with a neutral sound signature. While both switches have their unique strengths and characteristics, users may find the Flame Red more appealing for its visual aesthetics, while the WS Light Tactile switch may be preferred for its tactile feedback during 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
45g
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
4.00 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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The key difference between the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile lies in the material used for the top housing. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This contrast in sound profile emphasizes the importance of top housing material in determining the overall typing experience and sound of a switch.
On the other hand, both the Flame Red and the WS Light Tactile share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile with its softer plastic composition. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect a consistent bottom-out sound and feel regardless of which switch they choose. However, it's worth noting that the impact of the bottom housing on the overall typing experience may be more subdued compared to that of the top housing, as the top housing tends to have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile ultimately comes down to whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound profile associated with nylon top housing or a sharper, crisper sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate top housing. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a consistent bottom-out sound and feel, the differences in top housing material highlight the distinct sound signatures that each switch offers. Whether one prioritizes a rounder sound or a clearer sound, the selection of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have some differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 54 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile's 50 grams, making it slightly more resistant when fully pressed. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both. In terms of weight, the WS Light Tactile is lighter overall, which may be beneficial for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Flame Red's slightly heavier bottom out force may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their identical travel distances. Whether you choose the Flame Red linear switch or the WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and travel distance.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate sound level that is suitable for various scenarios, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or in a work setting. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Flame Red is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that it offers a gentle and refined feel that falls within a safe middle ground zone in terms of both sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is characterized as having a stepped and easy-to-press profile. This means that it provides a more subtle tactile bump with a light actuation force, resulting in a typing experience that is responsive and low-impact, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Flame Red provides a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile along with a gentle and polished feel, the WS Light Tactile switch maintains smoothness with a subtle tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, along with an easy-to-press and stepped feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a visually stunning switch with a smooth and weighty feel, ideal for a backlit, RGB keyboard, then the Flame Red is the way to go. However, if you prefer a switch that offers a smooth, snappy tactile bump with a neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your personal typing style and what features matter most to you. So, take your time to consider what matters most in your mechanical keyboard experience before making your decision.
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