TTC Brother vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, one can notice distinct differences in their characteristics. The Brother is praised for its lightweight and breezy actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both satisfying and effortless. Its crunchy sound signature appeals to clicky switch enthusiasts, while the tactile bump strikes a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, the Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp sound, offering a satisfying keystroke experience right out of the box. While the Brother is categorized as crunchy and easy-to-press, the Lavender is known for being easy-to-press and clacky. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Zuoce Lavender, we see that both switches feature unique characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness, while the Lavender's POM top housing has a deeper and more muted sound. These differences highlight how the material choice in the top housing can significantly impact the overall sound of a switch, with polycarbonate offering a brighter sound compared to POM's more subdued tones.
Moving on to the bottom housings, we find that both switches utilize different materials as well. The Brother's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, absorbing more sound to create a rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Lavender's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound, aligning with the switch's overall sound profile. Despite the different materials used in the bottom housing of each switch, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a unique and pleasing sound profile for users.
Overall, the differences between the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Zuoce Lavender create distinct typing experiences. While the Brother's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Lavender's POM top housing delivers a deeper and more muted sound. Additionally, the nylon and POM bottom housings of the two switches contribute to their overall sound profiles, with both aiming to provide a fuller and more pleasing typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that the Brother switch is lighter in both aspects. The Brother has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Lavender has a higher actuation force of 48 grams. Additionally, the Brother switch does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Lavender has a bottom out force of 53 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Brother switch would be the ideal choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In contrast, the Lavender switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a slightly heavier typist feel. Whether one opts for a lighter or heavier switch ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch is 3.5 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, the slight difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to all users. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Lavender switch, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Brother switch. Overall, both switches offer relatively similar travel distances, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 is known for its crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, a characteristic beloved by enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky sound profile that is sharp, snappy, and distinctly satisfying with each keystroke. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Brother emphasizing a crunchy feel while the Lavender delivers a crisp and bright sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Brother and the Lavender switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the Brother switch is noted for its stepped tactile bump, providing a subtle tactile feedback that strikes a perfect balance, while the feel of the Lavender switch is attributed to its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, attributed to its proprietary Ly blend.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in providing a satisfyingly crunchy sound and an easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel, making it a top favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. In contrast, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its smoothness and clacky sound signature, offering a distinctly satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the crunchy and tactile experience of the Brother switch or the smooth and clacky sensation of the Lavender switch, both providing high-quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a lightweight and tactile typing feel with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a crisp, clacky sound with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so it's important to consider what aspects of typing experience are most important to you before making a decision.
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