TTC Brother vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Brother clicky switch is celebrated for its lightweight nature with a breezy actuation of just 37g, creating a tactile experience that is not burdensome. Its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature is sure to please clicky switch enthusiasts, while the tactile bump strikes a perfect balance between being felt distinctly and not overpowering the overall keystroke. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 linear switch is praised for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a long-time community favorite for its low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy qualities. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different tastes; 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Ink Black V2, one key difference lies in their top housing materials. The Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 boasts a proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a slightly more pointed and clacky sound profile. While both materials provide a satisfying sound experience, the polycarbonate of the Brother may appeal more to those seeking a clearer and resonant sound, while the INK blend of the Gateron switch offers a unique clacky tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Brother utilizes a nylon material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2's bottom housing also features the proprietary INK blend, which complements the top housing's characteristics for a cohesive sound experience. The combination of the INK blend top and bottom housings on the Gateron switch may offer a more consistent sound profile compared to the split qualities of the Brother's housing materials.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials varies depending on whether they are used in the top or bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, whether nylon or INK blend, will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing material will play a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. Ultimately, while the Brother and the Gateron Ink Black V2 may differ in their choice of housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in the actuation force and bottom out force. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Brother switch has an unknown value, whereas the Ink Black V2 has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Brother switch offering a lighter touch and the Ink Black V2 offering a heavier feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In comparison, the Brother switch has a shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for those looking for faster response times, especially gamers. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, as both options offer different levels of key travel for unique typing sensations.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, the Brother offers a crunchy and satisfyingly crisp sound that is characteristic of clicky switches, resembling the sensation of walking on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 presents a low-pitched, bassy sound with a hint of chirpiness, providing a rich and deep auditory experience during keystrokes. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Brother excelling in providing a clear and precise click while the Ink Black V2 delivers a smoother and more mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers an easy-to-press and tactile experience with a light actuation of just 37g, making typing effortless and comfortable while still providing a noticeable tactile bump. Additionally, it is described as having a stepped feel, offering a more moderate tactile feedback compared to hyper tactile switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, ensuring a gentle and refined keystroke without excessive resistance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Brother focusing on tactile feedback and the Ink Black V2 emphasizing a smooth and polished feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother excels in providing a crunchy and tactile experience with clear click feedback, the Ink Black V2 delivers a smooth and polished typing feel with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing experiences, ensuring that users can attain similar results in either a tactile or linear switch depending on their individual preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfying and tactile experience with a lightweight actuation force, the TTC Brother clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its crisp and precise clicky sound signature, combined with a balanced tactile bump, makes it a top favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and rich linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a great option. Its classic linear feel offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound that many users appreciate. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a clicky tactile experience or a smooth linear feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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