TTC Brother vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stand out as top contenders in their respective categories. The Brother excels with its lightweight 37g actuation force, delivering a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that appeals to clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple offers a smooth and effortless typing experience with its 47g bottom-out force and slightly bassy sound profile. While the Brother is described as crunchy and easy-to-press, the Flaming Purple is characterized as feathery and resonant. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the TTC Flaming Purple switches have some key similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While both switches share the same housing materials, the way these materials are utilized may vary. The Brother may have a different sound profile compared to the Flaming Purple due to the distribution of the housing materials within the switch. The bottom housing, made of nylon, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing, made of polycarbonate, will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This difference in housing material distribution can lead to subtle variations in sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience. While the Brother and Flaming Purple switches both feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a fuller sound, the way these materials are utilized in each switch may result in different typing experiences. Regardless, both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that cater to users looking for a specific sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch which has an actuation force of 42 grams. The bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown, while the Flaming Purple switch has a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it heavier in comparison. The lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may be preferred for those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Flaming Purple switch could appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it slightly shorter than the 3.6mm travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Brother switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter distance. Gamers may prefer the Brother switch for its faster actuation when compared to the Flaming Purple switch. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced key press may find the Flaming Purple switch more satisfying due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy and precise typing experience that is reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch provides a bassier undertone with a touch of poppy flair, resulting in a rich and engaging sound profile. While the Brother leans towards a clear and crisp sound, the Flaming Purple adds depth and resonance to each keystroke, appealing to different auditory preferences among users.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, providing a light actuation force of 37g for effortless typing. It strikes a balance between tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, offering a comfortable and responsive typing experience. In comparison, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is described as feathery and silky, requiring minimal force to activate the keys for a smooth and low-impact typing feel. This light touch ensures that typing remains comfortable even during extended sessions, catering to users who prioritize ease of typing over tactile feedback.
Taking all the information into consideration, it's evident that both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother excels in providing a crunchy and tactile typing experience, the Flaming Purple stands out for its bassier sound profile and feathery touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, it's worth noting that both switches prioritize a lightweight and comfortable typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar levels of typing ease regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, you should carefully evaluate your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a clicky switch that offers a lightweight and tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a light actuation force, a bassier sound profile, and a feathery typing feel, the Flaming Purple switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style best.
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