TTC Brother vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offer distinctive experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The TTC Brother stands out for its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a top choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without feeling burdened by heavy keystrokes. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 boasts a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a silky and seamless typing experience that is enhanced by its light diffuser for RGB illumination. While the Brother is praised for its easy-to-press and stepped design, the Lightning Silver V3 is known for its clacky and high-pitched attributes. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, one notable similarity is that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting effects. However, the Brother's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate bottom housing which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile.
The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches results in a distinction in the overall sound and feel when typing on them. The Brother's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing leads to a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material, which is polycarbonate in both switches, affects the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The choice of material for each housing component plays a significant role in determining the overall sound, feel, and aesthetics of the switches. Whether using polycarbonate or nylon, each material brings its unique qualities to the switch, ultimately influencing the user's typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Brother switch is lighter in terms of actuation force with 37 grams compared to the Lightning Silver V3's 48 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Lightning Silver V3 is heavier at 60 grams compared to the Brother switch, which has an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Brother switch may be a more suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience and should be considered based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two may not be very noticeable during use, as it is only 0.1mm apart. However, those who are more sensitive to travel distances may find that the Brother switch offers a slightly deeper feel compared to the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive to the user.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 offers a crunchy and satisfyingly crisp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. This auditory experience is sure to please fans of clicky switches with its clear and precise click. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, giving a sharp and vibrant sound profile that can add a unique touch to your keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the tactile bump in the Brother switch strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable yet not overpowering. Conversely, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, making key presses feel exceptionally smooth and effortless.
In conclusion, while the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in providing a crunchy sound and easy-to-press feel with a well-balanced tactile feedback, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offers a unique clacky and high-pitched sound profile paired with a silky smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience and add a personal touch to your keyboard setup. Whether you prefer the crisp click of the Brother or the smoothness of the Lightning Silver V3, you can expect satisfying results based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a lightweight and tactile keystroke with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, then the Brother switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and seamless typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Lightning Silver V3 switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize lightweight tactility or smoothness in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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