TTC Brother vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch stand out as top contenders in the market. The Brother is praised for its lightweight and breezy actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both satisfying and effortless. With a crunchy sound signature and a well-balanced tactile bump, this switch is perfect for clicky switch enthusiasts looking for clear and precise feedback. On the other hand, the Laurel offers a medium-light linear switch experience with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design that ensures responsiveness and comfort. The switch also features a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it a great option for those seeking a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and KTT Laurel switches exhibit notable differences. The Brother features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the Laurel's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, whereas POM creates a unique sound experience with its deeper tones. On the other hand, both switches share similarities in their nylon bottom housings, which provide a fuller and deeper sound profile due to the material's softness and sound-absorbing qualities.
In terms of sound characteristics, the housing materials of the Brother and Laurel switches impact the overall typing experience in distinct ways. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Brother contributes to a crisper and more resonant sound when releasing a key, while the POM top housing of the Laurel creates a deeper and more subdued sound. Meanwhile, the softer nylon bottom housing of both switches generates a fuller sound profile when pressing down on keys. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches result in a unique combination of sound and feel for each key press.
Overall, the different housing materials used in the TTC Brother and KTT Laurel switches offer users a choice in sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Brother provides a sharper and more distinctive sound, while the POM top housing of the Laurel offers a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches share the characteristics of a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience by creating a fuller and deeper sound profile. Whether one prefers a crisper and resonant sound or a deeper and more subdued one, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall auditory and tactile typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Laurel linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Laurel switch has a lighter force of 50 grams, while the Brother switch's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force between the two switches may result in a slightly quicker response time for the Brother switch, while the Laurel switch provides a smoother typing experience with its lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Having the same travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is used. Although their designs and mechanisms may differ, the Brother and Laurel switches provide a similar feel and feedback due to their matching travel distances.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Brother excelling in delivering clear, crisp precision clicks and the Laurel presenting a more subdued and gentle typing experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Its tactile bump is described as stepped, providing a distinct feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a snappy feel, characterized by its super responsive nature that makes typing feel alive. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, with the Brother focusing on effortless key presses and the Laurel emphasizing responsiveness and comfort.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer different subjective qualities in sound and feel. While the Brother provides a crunchy sound and easy-to-press feel with a balanced tactile bump, the Laurel presents a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. Overall, both switches are solid options in their respective categories, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users seeking distinct qualities in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, consider the type of experience you're looking for. Opt for the TTC Brother if you enjoy a light actuation force, a satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a distinct typing experience without feeling burdened by heavy keypresses. On the other hand, choose the KTT Laurel if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a full POM housing, short travel, and a subtly low-pitched sound profile. This switch offers a comfortable and responsive typing feel with a snappy response, perfect for those who prioritize a smooth and consistent keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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