TTC Brother vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch are stand-out options to consider. The Brother clicky switch is celebrated for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both crisp and effortless. With a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, it is sure to please fans of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gold Brown tactile switch offers a balanced typing experience with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, producing a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches. While the Brother is known for its easy-to-press feel and stepped feedback, the Gold Brown is praised for its neutral, buttery keystrokes. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Brown utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. With both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics in terms of clarity and brightness.
On the other hand, the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Brown differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Brother featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Gold Brown also utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as its softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Since both switches incorporate nylon in their bottom housings, users can anticipate a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Brown contributes to the distinct sound profiles and typing experiences offered by these switches. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, providing a clear and resonant sound profile perfect for RGB lighting, they differentiate themselves through the nylon bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the sound produced when typing, creating a unique typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. The Brother switch does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Gold Brown switch has a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Gold Brown switch requires a heavier force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Brother switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Brother switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gold Brown switch. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in their lengths. The Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gold Brown tactile switch's 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Brother switch may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Gold Brown switch may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keypress for others. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 crunchy and satisfying experience akin to stepping on piles of autumn leaves, making each keystroke a delight for enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments due to its moderate actuation force requirement and softer sound in comparison to other switches. This difference in sound profiles allows for a personalized auditory experience depending on the user's preferences and surroundings.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Brother switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and a light actuation force that enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, the Brother switch has a stepped feel, providing a distinct tactile feedback that adds to the overall typing sensation. Conversely, the Gold Brown switch is described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes, prominent tactility without being overwhelming, and a refined finish for reduced friction and sleek key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Brother switch focusing on effortless key presses and the Gold Brown switch offering a more nuanced and approachable tactile feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and TTC Gold Brown tactile switch present unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother switch excels in providing a crunchy sound and easy-to-press feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a balanced sound profile and a mix of mild, buttery, accented, and polished tactile characteristics. Depending on the user's preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, either switch can cater to a variety of needs and preferences, ultimately ensuring a satisfying and personalized mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light actuation force with a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a balanced tactile bump, then the Brother clicky switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a moderate weightiness with a slight, satisfying bump that produces a softer sound profile, then the Gold Brown tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose accordingly based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, whether you opt for the crispiness of the Brother or the balance of the Gold Brown, you can't go wrong with either choice as they both provide a high-quality typing experience.
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