TTC Brother vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 28g
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference dictates much of the experience, and two excellent options to consider are the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch. The TTC Brother shines with its distinctive clicky feedback, lightweight actuation force of just 37g, and a delightful crunchy sound signature that typists who love auditory feedback will appreciate. Its tactile bump provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelming, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g excels in its simplicity and responsiveness, offering a very light actuation force that ensures quick keystrokes, complemented by a crisp and bright sound profile. This makes it an excellent option for gamers or typists looking for speed and smoothness without the distraction of clicking sounds. While both switches cater to different preferences—one reveling in tactile audibility and the other in seamless fluidity—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
28g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
34g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Brother and the Chiikawa - 28g share a notable similarity in their top housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches but also provides practical advantages when RGB lighting is involved, allowing for a vibrant illumination effect. As such, users can expect a similar auditory experience when pressing these switches, stemming from the shared top housing material that emphasizes clarity and resonance.
However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing construction, which can significantly influence the overall sound and feel during use. Both the TTC Brother and the Chiikawa - 28g feature nylon for their bottom housings, which is a classic choice known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon helps in absorbing sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience. Consequently, while both switches will exhibit similar characteristics in their top housing performance, the combination of polycarbonate on top and nylon at the bottom in both cases will yield a unique blend of sound dynamics that accentuates the comprehensive typing feel.
When considering the overall effect of the housing materials on performance, one should recognize that the differing qualities of the top and bottom housings contribute distinctively to the typing experience. The polycarbonate top from both switches will provide an agile and bright auditory signature, particularly during the release of the keys, while the nylon bottom will govern the more resonant and subdued aspect of the sound upon bottoming out. This composite interplay between the materials in both the TTC Brother and the Chiikawa - 28g ensures that users will enjoy a nuanced typing experience that harmoniously balances clarity and fullness in sound.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Brother switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, which is significantly heavier than the Chiikawa's actuation force of 28 grams. This implies that the Chiikawa switch is better suited for typists who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less finger fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Chiikawa has a measurable bottom out force of 34 grams, while the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown. This could mean that users might experience a greater tactile feedback when pressing the Chiikawa all the way down, although the TTC Brother’s force at that point remains undetermined. Overall, typists who appreciate a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the heavier TTC Brother switch, while those seeking a lighter switch for extended use might prefer the Chiikawa.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm indicates that the Chiikawa switch offers a slightly deeper keystroke, which some users may prefer for a more tangible feel when typing. The TTC Brother’s shorter travel may appeal more to gamers looking for quick response times, as shorter distances often translate to faster actuation. However, for those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, the Bsun Chiikawa’s longer travel distance could provide a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, your preference will determine which switch suits you best—if you prioritize responsiveness, the Brother switch may be more appealing, while the Chiikawa could be ideal for those who favor a deeper, more immersive tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g for $3.29.
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 Brother clicky switch is celebrated for its distinctively crunchy auditory feedback, reminiscent of stepping on crispy autumn leaves. This sound profile not only adds an engaging dimension to the typing experience but also provides a satisfying confirmation of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch features a bright sound profile that is both crisp and high-pitched, making it notably responsive. While both switches excel in producing appealing sounds, the Brother’s clicky nature offers more pronounced auditory feedback, while the Chiikawa provides a subtler linear experience. However, it's important to keep in mind that sound perception can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard platform and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch shines with its easy-to-press action, making key presses a breeze. It utilizes a lightweight actuation force of just 37g, thereby reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The tactile bump is distinct yet not overly aggressive, providing just the right amount of feedback to enhance the typing experience. Additionally, the stepped nature of the switch introduces a nuanced feel, allowing users to sense both pre-travel and post-travel during keystrokes, which can make typing more engaging. In contrast, the feel of the Chiikawa - 28g switch is not specified, but its very light actuation force suggests an effortless key activation that could cater to users who prefer an ultra-responsive typing experience.
Combining the qualities of both switches, the Brother clicky switch is ideal for those who thrive on tactile feedback and satisfying auditory cues, making it perfect for typists who enjoy a lively and interactive typing experience. Conversely, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is suited for users who seek smooth, silent keystrokes, delivering a lightweight and responsive typing feel. Each switch embodies its unique qualities, making them excellent choices depending on personal preferences in typing style and sound. Whether opting for the satisfying crunch of the Brother or the bright responsiveness of the Chiikawa, users will find their typing experience enriched in distinct ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the tactile experience you desire from your mechanical keyboard. If you relish a more tactile and auditory typing experience, the Brother switch may be your best option. Its lightweight actuation and satisfying click provide a joyful feedback that many clicky switch enthusiasts cherish. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy the distinct sound and feel of a clicky key, ideal for typing environments where audibility can enhance the user experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear feel with light actuation, the Chiikawa - 28g is tailored for you. With a notably light bottom-out force, it offers a responsive and effortless typing experience, making it well-suited for rapid key presses—ideal for gamers or anyone who prefers subtle feedback over pronounced clicks. Thus, consider your own typing style and environment when making your choice, as each switch delivers unique attributes tailored to different preferences.
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