TTC Brother vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Brother stands out for its lightweight nature, breezy actuation, and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a top favorite for clicky switch aficionados. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky nuance and smooth actuation, perfect for those who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. While the Brother is lauded for its tactile bump and clear precision, the Kiki Red excels in its silky smoothness and polished feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Bsun Kiki Red, it is evident that they both offer unique qualities that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the Kiki Red's POM top housing delivers a deeper and more muted sound, catering to a different preference. However, both materials are known for enhancing the overall sound experience, with polycarbonate being stiffer and POM offering a softer feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Brother's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing offers a deep and muted sound profile, creating a consistent typing experience. While the differences in material may lead to slight variations in sound, both nylon and POM contribute to a more rounded and dull sound compared to harder plastic materials. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Brother and Kiki Red switches differ, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Brother provides a sharp and resonant sound, while the POM top housing of the Kiki Red delivers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Brother and the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red contribute to a fuller and rounder sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and comfort, making them suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a distinct typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Brother switch's force is unknown while the Kiki Red switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Brother switch may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Kiki Red switch. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose based on their personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for quick and responsive typing or gaming experiences. However, the Kiki Red has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial keypress feel compared to the Brother. Gamers looking for fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Brother, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keypresses may favor the Kiki Red. Overall, both switches offer a balance between speed and feedback, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy and satisfying click that resonates with precision, akin to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Kiki Red linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound that is bright and percussive in nature. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Brother leaning towards a crunchy profile while the Kiki Red delivers a clacky note. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Brother clicky switch is described as easy-to-press with a stepped tactile sensation. The light actuation force of 37g makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. Its stepped design offers a more subtle tactile experience compared to other clicky switches. Conversely, the Kiki Red linear switch provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. With all-POM housings and Ly stems, these switches offer an exceptionally smooth and refined feel, perfect for users who prefer a quiet and refined typing experience. While the Brother emphasizes a light and stepped tactile feedback, the Kiki Red prioritizes smoothness and finesse in its performance.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother excels in providing a crunchy and distinct clicky sound with an easy-to-press and stepped tactile feel. On the other hand, the Kiki Red stands out for its clacky sound profile and creamy, smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the pronounced tactility of the Brother or the refined smoothness of the Kiki Red for their mechanical keyboard setup. While each switch offers a different typing experience, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfyingly crunchy and tactile typing experience with a lightweight actuation force, the TTC Brother clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its clear, crisp clicks and balanced tactile bump make it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, frictionless, and creamy typing feel with a comfortable bottom out force, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. The Kiki Reds offer a unique sound signature and a medium-light weighting that caters to those who appreciate finesse in both auditory feedback and performance. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize the audible satisfaction of clicky switches or the smooth, seamless typing experience of linear switches.
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