TTC Brother vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch. The TTC Brother is celebrated for its lightweight 37g actuation force, crunchy sound signature, and well-balanced tactile bump, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe boasts a dual rail mechanism for stability, smooth pre-lubed linear feel, and subtle sound signature. While the Brother offers a satisfyingly tactile experience, the Lunar Probe provides consistent keypresses with its innovative mechanism. 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
45g
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
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Lunar Probe, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in their design and color options, which could affect the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
On the other hand, the TTC Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a more rounded and duller sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. Despite both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, subtle variations in design or thickness could impact the overall typing experience and sound produced.
In terms of functionality, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Lunar Probe play a significant role in how the switches sound and feel when pressed. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released. Understanding how these housing materials interact with each other can help users make a more informed decision based on their preferences for sound and typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches may share similar housing materials, the overall design and construction can still lead to subtle differences in performance.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The Brother switch does not have information available for its bottom out force, while the Lunar Probe switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Brother switch would be the better choice, as it requires less force to activate a keystroke. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While the 0.1 mm may not seem like a significant difference, it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Brother clicky switch due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Lunar Probe linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the preference between the two switches will depend on individual typing or gaming needs, with both options offering a competitive travel distance for users seeking a responsive 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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 is known for its signature crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, which is a common trait among clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a more subtle sound profile, providing a smoother and quieter typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Brother appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback and the Lunar Probe appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This lightweight actuation of just 37g ensures a comfortable typing experience while reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the Brother switch features a stepped tactile bump that provides a well-balanced feedback, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a smooth and pre-lubed keystroke, ensuring consistent and stable keypresses without the tactile bump characteristic of clicky switches. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Brother focusing on ease of keypress and tactile feedback, while the Lunar Probe prioritizes smoothness and consistency.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch each offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother switch excels in providing a crunchy sound profile and an easy-to-press typing experience with a tactile bump, catering to enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch stands out for its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses with a subtler sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches promise high-quality performance, and users can expect satisfying results whether they opt for the Brother clicky switch or the Lunar Probe linear switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider the specific features of each switch to match your typing preferences. If you value a lightweight actuation force, a satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance, the TTC Brother clicky switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a stable and smooth keypress experience with a subtle sound signature, opt for the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch. Ultimately, your choice should align with your desired typing experience, whether you prioritize audible feedback or a smooth keystroke sensation. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
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