TTC Brother vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch are standout choices. The Brother excels in providing a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature and a breezy actuation of just 37g, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet offers a gentle and comfortable typing experience with a light operating force of 45g and a mellow sound profile. While the Brother is known for its easy-to-press nature and distinct tactile bump, the Crystal Violet is praised for its creamy feel and non-intrusive auditory experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Everglide Crystal Violet, it is clear that they each have distinct characteristics. The Brother utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Crystal Violet features an ABS top housing that contributes to a lower-pitched sound when typing. However, both switches share the use of ABS for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar low-pitched sound profile during use. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When looking at the nylon bottom housing of the Brother compared to the ABS bottom housing of the Crystal Violet, differences in sound profiles become evident. The nylon material of the Brother produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. In contrast, the Crystal Violet's ABS bottom housing contributes to a lower-pitched sound profile, showcasing the impact that housing material can have on the auditory experience of typing on a keyboard. While both switches may have ABS bottom housings, the variations in their top housings play a significant role in the overall sound produced.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Brother and the Everglide Crystal Violet will come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. The differences in housing materials, whether it be polycarbonate or ABS, nylon or ABS, will result in unique typing experiences for users. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile of a switch is crucial in making an informed decision. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller tone, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Crystal Violet tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Brother switch's force is not provided, while the Crystal Violet switch requires a bottom out force of 55 grams. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches can significantly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Brother switch, enabling them to type for longer periods comfortably. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Crystal Violet switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it is clear that the Brother has a shorter distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Crystal Violet's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Brother switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Crystal Violet switch may provide a more substantial and satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user. Both switches offer unique advantages, and selecting either will result in a reliable and tactile typing experience.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 offers a satisfyingly crunchy experience, akin to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch produces a pleasantly mellow and low-pitched sound, creating a more subtle auditory experience that is well-suited for quiet environments. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can select based on their desired auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is lauded for its easy-to-press actuation and stepped tactile bump, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience without causing finger fatigue. Conversely, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offers a creamy and mild typing sensation, allowing for smooth and effortless keystrokes. Additionally, both switches feature a stepped design, offering a more subtle tactile feedback compared to switches with a more pronounced bump. Overall, users can expect a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in delivering a satisfyingly crunchy sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a top choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience. Meanwhile, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offers a mellow sound profile and creamy typing feel, catering to users looking for a smoother typing experience. Whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump or a gentler typing sensation, both switches provide unique qualities that ensure a pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, consider your preferences carefully. If you value a light actuation force, a distinct tactile bump, and a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher actuation force, a gentle and comfortable typing experience, and a mellow, low-pitched sound profile, the Crystal Violet switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the feel and sound you desire in a keyboard switch, so think about what aspects matter most to you before making your choice.
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