Gateron Aliaz vs. TTC Brother
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Brother switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Brother mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that each offers unique features suited for different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments like the office, providing a medium-heavy weight and a pronounced typing feedback without the noise, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a substantial feel to their keystrokes. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch stands out for its lightweight nature with a breezy actuation, delivering a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that will appeal to clicky switch enthusiasts. While the Aliaz is 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Brother is 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different tastes, but ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences. 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
17.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and TTC Brother switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing them with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Brother switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Aliaz's top and bottom housings work together to create a clear and resonant typing experience, while the Brother switch splits these qualities between its housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, clear housing switches are more likely to be made of polycarbonate, as its translucency allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively. The polycarbonate top housing of both the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Brother switches offers a visually appealing component to the switches, making them ideal choices for those who enjoy customizing their keyboard setup with vibrant lighting effects. However, the difference in material for the bottom housing, with the Brother using nylon, provides a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile that appeals to users seeking a more muted and rounded sound compared to the crisper sound produced by polycarbonate.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on typing experience, the qualities of each material come into play. The bottom housing is more influential on the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the overall typing experience when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, providing a satisfying auditory response for typists. While the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Brother switches both offer benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, it is evident that these two switches offer significantly different experiences. The Aliaz switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Brother switch has a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Brother switch for a more effortless typing experience, while those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the Aliaz switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Brother clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aliaz offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a greater depth when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Brother clicky switch provides a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast feedback. Both switches offer their own advantages based on individual preference, with the Aliaz catering to those who enjoy a deeper key press and the Brother appealing to those seeking a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch offers a muted experience, ideal for those in quiet environments such as offices where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch provides a crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, which is sure to please fans of clicky switches. The Aliaz switch will give you a softer and quieter typing experience, while the Brother switch offers a more pronounced and satisfying click with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Its medium-heavy weight gives each keystroke a substantial feel without being overly burdensome. On the other hand, the Brother switch is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and a light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing. It also features a stepped tactile bump for a more nuanced typing experience, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during each keystroke.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is perfect for those looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile feedback, while the Brother is ideal for clicky switch enthusiasts who enjoy a crisp and crunchy sound with easy-to-press keystrokes. Both switches provide unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you value a quiet typing experience and prefer a medium-heavy weight with a substantial feel to each keystroke, the Aliaz switch is the way to go. It's perfect for office settings or anywhere noise may be a concern. On the other hand, if you enjoy the crisp and clear feedback of a clicky switch with a lightweight actuation and a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother switch is the ideal choice for you. It offers a tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance between being felt distinctly and not overpowering the overall keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a quiet and substantial typing experience (Aliaz) or a clicky and tactile one with a crunchy sound (Brother).
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