TTC Flaming Purple vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Strawberry, both being linear switches. The Flaming Purple from TTC stands out for its resonant character and slightly bassier sound signature, providing an engaging auditory experience with every keystroke. With a bottom-out force of 47g, it offers a feathery and effortless typing feel, appealing to both enthusiasts and daily typists. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry is known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, with its attractive pink and clear housings adding to its appeal. While the Flaming Purple is described as 'Bassy', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press', the Strawberry is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', and 'Buttery'. 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
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
One key difference between the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Strawberry is the bottom housing material. The Flaming Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic nature. This distinction in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both the Flaming Purple and the Strawberry share a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice creates a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic leads to a sharper and crisper sound when compared to softer plastics like nylon. As a result, users of both switches can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from the polycarbonate top housing, highlighting a commonality in their design and functionality.
In terms of overall typing experience, the different housing materials of the Flaming Purple and the Strawberry have distinct impacts on keypress sounds and feelings. The bottom housing material determines the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller experience compared to the sharper sound from polycarbonate. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, with both switches offering a clear and resonant tone due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, users can choose between the unique sound profiles offered by the different housing materials to suit their preferences for typing on either the Flaming Purple or the Strawberry switches.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Flaming Purple switch requires a gentler touch to activate a key press compared to the Strawberry switch. The lighter actuation force of the Flaming Purple switch may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Strawberry switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. In terms of bottom out force, the Strawberry switch requires more force to fully press the key down compared to the Flaming Purple switch. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience, with the Flaming Purple being lighter and the Strawberry being slightly heavier.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the KTT Strawberry has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Flaming Purple. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Flaming Purple falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a good option for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Strawberry provides a slightly deeper press, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, so overall, they will offer similar results in terms of key feel, with the main difference being the slight variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
The KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is known for its slightly bassier undertone and resonant character, providing an engaging auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more mellow tone. Both switches offer a unique sound signature that can enhance the overall typing experience, although the Flaming Purple may provide a more pronounced bassy feel compared to the Strawberry's mellow sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is lauded for its feathery nature and easy-to-press actuation, making typing swift and effortless. It offers a light bottom-out force of just 47g, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The KTT Strawberry linear switch, on the other hand, is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and comfortable typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness, offering a satisfying feel that can cater to different preferences.
Overall, both the TTC Flaming Purple and KTT Strawberry linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Flaming Purple leans towards a slightly bassier sound and feathery feel, the Strawberry provides a smoother and more polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts and daily typists alike. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, in choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a slightly bassier sound profile, the Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. Its feathery nature and engaging auditory flair make it suitable for enthusiasts and daily typists alike. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a smoother, frictionless typing experience, the Strawberry switch might be more appealing to you. Its comfortable feel and reliable performance make it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences for an enjoyable typing experience.
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