TTC Brother vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch offer two distinct experiences for users to consider. The TTC Brother is celebrated for its lightweight actuation at 37g, providing a tactile experience without feeling burdensome. Its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature and perfectly balanced tactile bump make it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ offers a unique take on linear switches with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. Categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', and 'Thocky', the CJ provides a different typing experience compared to the Brother. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on your individual typing style and 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron CJ switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound and feel of typing. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing delivers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. Both materials emphasize clarity and precision in sound production, with polycarbonate being stiffer and resonant, and the INK blend offering a satisfying, yet not overly sharp, clacky sound. However, the polycarbonate top housing's translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding a visual element to its auditory properties.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Brother's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the CJ's POM bottom housing, which produces a more muted and deeper sound. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound, while POM's unique properties contribute to a pleasing sound experience. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, highlighting the impact of the nylon or POM material on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the TTC Brother and Gateron CJ switches showcase how different housing materials can significantly impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard. While both switches prioritize clarity and precision in sound production, the specific qualities of polycarbonate and INK blend in the top housing, as well as nylon and POM in the bottom housing, offer unique acoustic experiences for users. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the clacky and deep sound of POM, each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience and allows for customization based on personal preferences.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch offers a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron CJ linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the TTC Brother is unknown, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium level of resistance. The lighter actuation force of the TTC Brother may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Gateron CJ may suit individuals who desire a more substantial push feel for a tactile typing experience. Overall, selecting the appropriate switch weight is essential to ensure optimal comfort and performance based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gateron CJ linear switch has a longer travel distance compared to the TTC Brother clicky switch. The 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can affect the typing experience significantly. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the TTC Brother clicky switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gateron CJ linear switch. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 praised for its crunchy sound that evokes the sensation of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, a signature characteristic of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a chirpy sound profile with a unique squeak, making it stand out in the realm of linear switches. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is admired for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a mild typing experience that appeals to a wider range of users, with a feel that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone. The tactile feedback and actuation characteristics of these switches offer varied typing sensations, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Overall, while the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in providing high-quality keystrokes. Whether you prefer a crunchy clicky experience or a chirpy linear feel, both switches deliver on their respective strengths to provide satisfying typing experiences. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you seek when choosing between these two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are a fan of clicky switches and enjoy a lightweight, tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, then the TTC Brother clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be a great option. Consider your preference for sound and feel when making your decision, as both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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