TTC Brother vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Brother is praised for its light actuation of just 37g, providing a breezy typing experience that is both tactile and satisfyingly crunchy for enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to those seeking a balanced and distinctive tactile feedback. While the Brother is categorized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Stepped', the Holly falls under 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and Dareu Holly switches differ in their top housing material. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of sound and aesthetics, the top housing of these switches plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the TTC Brother and Dareu Holly switches vary with the Brother featuring a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material of a switch impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, influencing the overall typing experience and auditory feedback. In contrast, the Holly also has a nylon bottom housing, sharing similar characteristics in terms of sound production and tactile feedback.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the differences between the top and bottom housings of the TTC Brother and Dareu Holly switches offer unique typing experiences. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a diversified sound profile when typing, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience and sound profile, highlighting the importance of material selection for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Holly tactile switch's actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Brother switch will require less force to register a keypress, which may be preferred by users who want a lighter typing experience. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Holly switch with its heavier actuation force may be a better choice. Unfortunately, information on the bottom out force for both switches is unavailable, so it is unclear which switch requires more force to fully press down. In general, the lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may make it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Holly switch may provide users with a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for key registration.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Dareu Holly tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the Holly switch provides a deeper feeling when pressed due to its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and feel.
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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press actuation, providing a gentle resistance that requires minimal force, making typing effortless and comfortable. The stepped feel of the Brother switch adds to its appeal, offering a two-stage tactile experience that distinguishes it from other switches on the market. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Dareu Holly tactile switch is unavailable. It is important to note that the feel of a switch is subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch impresses with its lightweight actuation force of 37g, creating a tactile experience that is both satisfying and comfortable. Its crunchy sound signature is sure to please enthusiasts of clicky switches, providing clear and precise feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a medium 50g actuation force and a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users seeking a balanced typing experience. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, enthusiasts can expect a similar level of quality and performance from both switches, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you value a light actuation force, crisp clicky sound, and a well-balanced tactile bump, then the Brother switch would be an excellent choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sound elements, the Holly switch may be more to your liking. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so take into account what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Brother and Holly switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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