TTC Brother vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch are two popular options to explore. The Brother stands out for its satisfyingly crunchy sound and breezy actuation of just 37g, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Lightning is praised for its speed and precision, making it ideal for competitive gaming where milliseconds can make all the difference. While the Brother offers a tactile experience with a distinct feedback, the Lightning provides a smooth and polished typing feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the KTT Lightning both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housings will influence the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TTC Brother and the KTT Lightning use nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder overall sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will result in a different tactile experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. Despite the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing, the way in which each switch implements this material may impact the typing experience in unique ways.
The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the TTC Brother and KTT Lightning switches divides the qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While both switches may yield similar sound profiles due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing of each switch may result in subtle differences in overall typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Lightning linear switch's actuation force of 43 grams, making the Brother easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the bottom out force of the Brother switch is unknown, while the Lightning switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully press down. This means that the Brother clicky switch may provide a lighter typing experience overall, while the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a more substantial and tactile feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. In this case, the Lightning switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Brother switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for some users. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize faster input speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press feel and response time.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 sound signature that is synonymous with traditional clicky switches, providing a satisfyingly tactile experience for users who enjoy the crisp and precise click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which may appeal to those looking for a more slick typing experience. The Brother switch delivers a more classic clicky sound, while the Lightning switch produces a sharper and brighter sound, providing different auditory experiences for users. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so whether you prefer the crunchy click of the Brother or the clacky sound of the Lightning, you'll get a satisfying auditory experience with either switch.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses with a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and comfortable. The tactile bump is articulated in a way that strikes a perfect balance between being felt distinctly and not overpowering the overall keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch provides a subtle and polished typing experience, with gentle resistance and a smooth key travel, suitable for those looking for a refined and low-impact typing feel. The Brother switch offers an easy and tactile typing experience, while the Lightning switch provides a more subtle and polished feel, catering to different preferences in typing feedback.
In conclusion, both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Brother switch provides a classic clicky sound with an easy-to-press tactile feel, while the Lightning switch offers a clacky sound profile with a subtle and polished typing experience. Whether you prioritize auditory satisfaction or tactile feedback in your typing experience, both switches offer quality options for users looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches delivering satisfying results in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch that provides a lightweight tactile experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is the way to go. It's perfect for those who enjoy a noticeable tactile bump without it being too overpowering. On the other hand, if you need a switch for fast-paced gaming where milliseconds count, the KTT Lightning linear switch with its light actuation force and slick typing feel might be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a distinct tactile feel and audible feedback (Brother) or a smooth and fast keystroke (Lightning). Consider your typing and gaming preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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