TTC Brother vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother and Gateron Luciola stand out as excellent options, each with its own unique characteristics. The Brother is a clicky switch that is lightweight and offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature loved by clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Luciola is a linear switch that features a smooth and bouncy typing feel, with the added bonus of glowing in the dark. The Brother is ideal for those looking for an easy-to-press and crunchy typing experience, while the Luciola is perfect for those who prefer a snappy and polished 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and Gateron Luciola switches exhibit notable differences in terms of sound profiles and material characteristics. The Brother utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed, high-pitched, and clacky sound. Despite both having a high-pitched sound, the Brother's polycarbonate offers a sharper tone, while the Luciola's INK blend provides a more satisfying and rounder sound.
In the realm of bottom housings, the Brother employs a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing. Similarly, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This showcases how the choice of material for the bottom housing can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In situations where the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each material are distributed between the key press and key release. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing is more prominent in the sound when releasing a key. While the Brother and Luciola switches may have contrasting housing materials, their unique characteristics come together to offer distinct typing experiences for users seeking different sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Luciola linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. The bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown, while the Luciola switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Luciola switch requires more force to depress fully compared to the Brother switch. Some may prefer the Brother switch for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Luciola switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Brother has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Luciola, providing a slightly quicker key press response. Gamers who prioritize speed may prefer the Brother switch for its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Luciola's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press feel for those who prefer a bit more depth to their keystrokes. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prioritize responsiveness in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in keyboard switches.
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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch produces a sharp and snappy clacky sound profile, akin to the sound of a can of spray paint being shaken. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Brother offering a unique crunch while the Luciola delivers a bright and percussive click.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during typing sessions. It also features a stepped tactile bump that adds to the overall typing experience. On the flip side, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its snappy and buttery feel, providing a super responsive and smooth keystroke experience. Additionally, the Luciola switch is described as polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing sensation.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in providing a crunchy and easy-to-press tactile experience with precise feedback, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch stands out with its snappy and buttery feel coupled with a clacky sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will enjoy a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice. Whether opting for the Brother or the Luciola, users can expect similar levels of quality and performance that align with their individual preferences in both sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider the specific characteristics of each switch to determine which best suits your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light actuation force, a distinctive clicky sound, and a balanced tactile bump, the TTC Brother clicky switch is an excellent choice for a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weighted switch with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch, with its unique glow-in-the-dark feature, may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing habits and preferences, and you'll surely find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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