TTC Brother vs. HMX EVA

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process, especially when comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch with the HMX EVA linear switch. The TTC Brother is celebrated for its lightweight feel, with an actuation force of just 37g, providing an effortless typing experience that is further enhanced by its satisfying crunchy sound. This clicky switch is perfect for those who appreciate a tactile feedback and enjoy the auditory pleasure that comes with each keystroke, making it a favorite among gamers and typists seeking a lively touch. In contrast, the HMX EVA linear switch offers a smoother typing experience without the distracting clicks, aimed at users who prefer a quieter operation and a fluid stroke. Inspired by the striking colors of Evangelion Unit-01, the EVA is not only visually appealing but is also designed for those who prioritize comfort over auditory feedback in their typing environment. Each switch caters to distinct preferences—whether you crave the tactile excitement of a click or the stealthy elegance of a linear. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Brother Clicky

HMX EVA Linear

$5.50

$3.30 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the TTC Brother and HMX EVA switches, the use of different materials in their top housings significantly affects their sound profiles. The Brother employs a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its rigidity, which allows for sharper, higher-pitched sounds and enhanced resonance. This creates a clear and pronounced audio experience, especially when RGB lighting is utilized, as the translucency of polycarbonate amplifies lighting effects. In contrast, the HMX EVA utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. Consequently, while both switches serve the same purpose, they cater to different auditory preferences, with the TTC Brother offering a brighter sound and the HMX EVA delivering a warmer tone.

In terms of bottom housings, both the TTC Brother and HMX EVA employ nylon, imparting a consistent sound quality to the bottom-out experience. The nylon bottom housing in the Brother, like that of the EVA, absorbs sound effectively, contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile. The similarities in bottom housing materials suggest that users will experience a comparable depth in sound when they bottom out on either switch. As such, although the sound profiles diverge significantly at the top, the unified use of nylon for the bottom housing indicates that both switches will provide a harmonious and mellow auditory feel during operation. This consistency creates a balance, allowing the sharper sounds from the polycarbonate top of the Brother to be complemented by the softer tones from the nylon bottom.

While the TTC Brother and HMX EVA differ in their upper housings, the effective use of nylon in their bottom components ensures that users can still enjoy substantial auditory satisfaction. When pressing the keys, the nylon bottom housing characterizes the tactile feel and sound impact, sourcing from its sound-absorbing qualities. The polycarbonate top of the Brother enhances the sound produced upon releasing a key, leading to a more dynamic overall performance. In contrast, the nylon top of the EVA smooths out the acoustic sharpness, rendering a cohesive and rounded experience. In summary, although the switches feature varied materials on the top, the consistent application of nylon in the bottoms guarantees that users will have similarly gratifying experiences in terms of sound depth and tactility when bottoming out on either switch.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation forces and bottom out characteristics. The Brother switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the EVA switch requires a higher actuation force of 42 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. However, information regarding the bottom out force of the Brother switch is unavailable, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in that regard. In contrast, the EVA switch has a bottom out force of 48 grams, inherently providing a heavier feel when pressed all the way down. This aspect may attract users who enjoy a stronger push, contributing to a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, for those who favor lighter switches to enhance typing endurance during long sessions, the TTC Brother switch may be preferable. However, for users who appreciate that heavier touch and the tactile feedback offered by the EVA switch, it stands out as the choice for a more robust keystroke involvement.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, we find that the Brother features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the EVA has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Brother switch provides a shorter actuation distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers or those who prefer quicker response times. The EVA, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more pronounced feel, which could be favored by users who appreciate a deeper, more substantial keystroke. Consequently, if you prioritize responsiveness, the TTC Brother would be the better choice, whereas those seeking a more traditional experience with greater depth might prefer the HMX EVA.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When evaluating the sound profile of the TTC Brother clicky switch, it stands out with an engaging and robust crunchy sound signature that will resonate well with fans of clicky switches. This auditory quality, akin to the sound of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the HMX EVA linear switch is characterized by a more resonant sound, which likely contributes to a quieter typing environment compared to the loud and distinct clicks of the Brother. The sound dynamics of each switch are influenced by various factors, including the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but the inherent differences between clicky and linear switches are evident in their complementary sound profiles.

In terms of feel, the TTC Brother switch is designed for a highly enjoyable typing experience characterized by its easy-to-press nature and defined tactile feedback. Requiring just 37g of actuation force, it offers minimal resistance during key presses, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions while avoiding finger fatigue. Its stepped tactile feedback means that typists will notice a distinct bump at the actuation point, providing gratifying confirmation of each keystroke without overwhelming the tactile sensation. On the other hand, the HMX EVA linear switch is celebrated for its smooth typing action, though specific details about its tactile response and overall feel compared to the Brother are not provided. Linear switches, by their nature, lack the tactile bump found in clicky switches, leading to an experience that is fluid and uninterrupted.

In summary, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EVA linear switch each offer unique qualities suited to different typing preferences. The Brother’s crunchy sound and tactile feedback make it a favorite among fans of clicky switches, while the EVA’s resonant sound and smooth typing experience appeal to those who prefer linear switches. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you desire the crisp feedback and sound of clicky switches or the fluidity and quiet operation of a linear switch, but both can provide enjoyable typing experiences when matched with suitable keyboards and keycaps.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EVA linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you're someone who enjoys tactile feedback combined with an audible response while typing, the Brother switch is a stellar option. Its lightweight actuation of just 37 grams makes it a breeze for fast-paced typing or gaming, while the satisfying crunch of each keystroke adds an enjoyable auditory element to your experience. This switch is ideal for those who thrive on a clear tactile response and appreciate the unique sound profile that comes with clicky switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more understated typing experience, the HMX EVA switch might be the better choice for you. With its heavier bottom-out force of 48 grams and silky smooth feel, this linear switch delivers a more subdued sound signature, allowing you to type quietly and efficiently. This makes the EVA especially suitable for productivity-focused environments or late-night typing sessions where noise might be a concern. Ultimately, weigh these aspects carefully to find the switch that aligns best with your preferences and usage scenarios.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Brother Clicky

$5.50

$3.30 per 10

Learn more

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more