TTC Brother vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch stand out as compelling options with distinct characteristics. The Brother is praised for its lightweight actuation of 37g, delivering a tactile experience that is both responsive and enjoyable for clicky switch enthusiasts. Its satisfyingly crunchy sound and balanced tactile bump make each keystroke a precision-filled delight. On the other hand, the Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, culminating in a solid bottom-out with each press. This switch offers a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity, thanks to its smooth journey from press to bottoming out. While the Brother provides a more tactile and audible experience, the Gold Silver excels in swift and precise 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Silver utilize polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other materials. This is due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for switches that feature RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the typing experience. With both switches sharing this housing material, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and appearance.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Silver feature nylon housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder materials. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate, providing a different typing experience for users who prefer a less crisp sound. With both switches utilizing nylon bottom housings, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Brother and the TTC Gold Silver lie in their top and bottom housings. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, which enhances the sound quality and appearance, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing creates a different typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The split between the qualities of the two housing materials allows users to experience a combination of sharpness and clarity from the polycarbonate top, paired with the deeper and fuller sound from the nylon bottom, providing a unique typing experience for each switch.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Gold Silver linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may be preferred by those who type or game for extended periods, as it requires less effort to activate. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Gold Silver switch might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In terms of actuation force, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Brother switch, while those who prefer a heavier feel may find the Gold Silver switch more to their liking.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The travel distance is crucial in determining the tactile feedback and overall feel of the keyboard switches. In this case, both switches offer a consistent travel distance, ensuring a similar typing experience regardless of the switch chosen. With the travel distance being identical for both switches, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress responsiveness and feedback.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy sound signature reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, catering to those who enjoy a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that delivers a deep and rich tone, striking a balance between a bass-heavy sound and a more mellow vibe. Both switches offer distinct auditory characteristics, giving users options based on their sound preferences.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, leading to a responsive and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a polished and silky feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Brother switch focuses on gentle resistance and effortless typing, the Gold Silver switch emphasizes smoothness and refined keypresses.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Brother switch excels in providing a crunchy sound and an easy-to-press typing experience, the Gold Silver switch stands out for its thocky sound and polished, silky feel. Depending on whether one prioritizes auditory satisfaction or smooth typing, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their individual strengths. Ultimately, users can expect distinct yet satisfying results based on their personal preferences when choosing between these two exceptional TTC mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, think about your preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a light actuation force and a satisfyingly crunchy sound, along with a balanced tactile feedback, then the TTC Brother clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a solid bottom-out feel, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch might be more suited to your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider your priorities in sound, feel, and typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.
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