TTC Brother vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking to choose between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Brother stands out for its lightweight construction, providing a tactile experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that will please clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gold Red linear switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, adding a subtle touch of personality to your keyboard. While the Brother is known for its easy-to-press feel and distinctive tactile bump, the Gold Red boasts a thocky sound profile and a polished, subtle feedback. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Red, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting features. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics from both the Brother and Gold Red switches due to their shared top housing material.
In terms of their bottom housing, both the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Red opt for nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a more rounded and dull sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound depth and resonance.
While the top housing of a switch can impact the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. With the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Red incorporating different materials for their top and bottom housings, users can expect a balanced sound profile that combines the sharper, crisper qualities of polycarbonate with the deeper, fuller characteristics of nylon. This blend of materials ensures a unique typing experience for each switch while maintaining consistent sound and feel throughout each keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in how each switch feels and performs. The Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gold Red linear switch's 43 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. However, the bottom out force of the Brother switch is unknown, while the Gold Red switch has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smoother typing experience with less resistance. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Brother switch more favorable, while individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel may lean towards the Gold Red switch. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch cater to different preferences and typing styles, offering users the opportunity to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Red linear switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Brother clicky switch. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a bit more depth to the key press, the Gold Red linear switch may be the better option. However, for those who value faster response times and a more immediate feel, the Brother clicky switch with its shorter travel distance could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both switches will provide a satisfying 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 Red 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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is best described as having a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This characteristic is a hallmark of clicky switches and is sure to please enthusiasts of this type. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is best characterized as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to the higher-pitched clicky switches. While both switches offer distinct sound experiences, the Brother provides a more tactile and audible typing experience, while the Gold Red offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for being easy-to-press and stepped, offering a gentle resistance and a two-stage feel during keystrokes. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is characterized as being mild, silky, subtle, and polished. These qualities translate to a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, making them approachable to most users. While the Brother offers a more tactile and stepped typing feel, the Gold Red provides a smoother and more refined typing experience overall.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother excels in providing a tactile and crunchy typing experience with a satisfyingly clear and precise sound profile. On the other hand, the Gold Red offers a smoother and more polished typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Brother appealing to clicky switch enthusiasts seeking a more tactile typing experience, and the Gold Red appealing to those looking for a smooth and refined typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the TTC Gold Red linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance, the Brother clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium resistance and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red linear switch would be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision depends on whether you prioritize a crisp and clicky feel or a smooth and subtle typing experience. Consider your typing style and sound preferences when making your selection between these two exceptional TTC switches.
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