TTC Brother vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch. The Brother is celebrated for its lightweight nature, featuring a breezy actuation of just 37g, which provides a tactile experience without feeling burdensome. It offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that will please enthusiasts of clicky switches, along with a well-balanced tactile bump for precise feedback. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro linear switch is renowned for its versatility, offering ease of press and a neutral sound signature that adapts well to any setting. While the Brother is more 'crunchy' and 'easy-to-press', the Gold Red Pro is characterized as 'polished', 'thocky', 'low-pitched', 'silky', 'mild', 'neutral', and 'subtle'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make it appealing to different users depending on their preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Brother and TTC Gold Red Pro both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they may differ in terms of design and RGB lighting compatibility.
In contrast, the Brother and Gold Red Pro employ nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material influences the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite this distinction, both switches benefit from the acoustic qualities of nylon in their bottom housings.
The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings of the Brother and Gold Red Pro allows for a balance of sound and feel when typing. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is complemented by the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials ensures a well-rounded typing experience with a blend of sharpness and depth in sound profile. Ultimately, while the Brother and Gold Red Pro may differ in their housing materials, they both offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation forces. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Gold Red Pro switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but it can be assumed that they may provide a similar typing experience due to the comparable actuation forces. The lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the Gold Red Pro switch may be favored by those who desire a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch is 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. While both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, the Gold Red Pro offers a slightly deeper key press experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Brother switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the Gold Red Pro to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 is renowned for its crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This satisfyingly crisp and precise sound is a hallmark of clicky switches, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a more neutral and thocky sound, with a low-pitched tone that is harmonious in any environment. While the Brother delivers a more pronounced and distinctive click, the Gold Red Pro provides a more balanced and versatile auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother switch offers an easy-to-press and stepped experience, with a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The tactile bump is articulate, providing a distinct feedback while still maintaining a gentle typing feel. On the contrary, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and minimal resistance. These qualities make it approachable and adaptable to various typing preferences, catering to a wide range of users.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch present contrasting yet equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother excels in delivering a crunchy and precise click with a tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance, ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced sound and feedback. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro offers a neutral and versatile sound profile, coupled with a polished and silky typing experience that is smooth and refined. Whether you prefer the distinct click of the Brother or the smoothness of the Gold Red Pro, both switches provide exceptional performance tailored to different preferences and settings. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a tactile and audible typing experience with a light actuation force, the Brother clicky switch would be a great choice for you. Its crisp feedback and satisfying click sound make it ideal for those who appreciate a lively typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a versatile switch with a smooth and polished feel, the Gold Red Pro linear switch might be more suitable for you. Its neutral sound profile and adaptable nature make it a well-rounded option for various typing environments. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences, so choose the one that best fits your needs.
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