TTC Brother vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer unique typing experiences for enthusiasts. The TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its lightweight nature, with an actuation force of just 37g, making it effortless to type on. Its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature and well-balanced tactile bump make each keystroke a joy for clicky switch aficionados. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch stands out for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The classic clacky sound profile adds to the typing experience of these switches. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Brother and the Durock Lupine feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of this plastic material. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the dispersion of light. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, the top housing of both switches will have a significant impact on the overall typing experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the TTC Brother and the Durock Lupine diverge. The Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of this plastic material. On the other hand, the Lupine also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics to the Brother. Both switches with nylon bottom housings will provide a typing experience with a more muffled and rounded sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
Overall, while the top housings of the TTC Brother and the Durock Lupine are identical in terms of polycarbonate material, the different bottom housing materials can lead to variations in sound profiles. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials, with the Brother providing a sharper sound profile due to its polycarbonate top housing, and the Lupine delivering a deeper sound profile thanks to its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Durock Lupine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Lupine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown. The actuation force of the Brother switch provides a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing experience, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Lupine switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, providing a more satisfying push feel for those who prefer a stronger feedback while typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend 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 Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for individuals looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be drastically noticeable to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the Lupine linear switch with its 3.7 mm travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a slightly shallower key press may opt for the TTC Brother clicky switch with its 3.5 mm travel distance. In general, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a more responsive typing or gaming experience overall.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 distinctive and delightful crunchy sound that is synonymous with clicky switches, akin to the sound of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile with a high-pitched tone, ideal for those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound when typing. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can enjoy a satisfying typing sound based on their individual tastes and needs.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, providing a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This lightweight actuation enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. The two-stage long springs in the Lupine switch provide consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, adding to the overall typing comfort.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Brother excels in providing a satisfyingly crunchy sound and an easy-to-press tactile feedback, the Lupine stands out for its neutral sound profile and polished, mild typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience for users, ensuring that they can find a switch that suits their preferences and typing style. Whether opting for the clicky Brother or the linear Lupine, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light and breezy actuation with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, then the Brother switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, along with a classic clacky sound profile, then the Lupine switch may be more suited to your preferences. Keep in mind that the Brother switch has a bottom out force of None grams, while the Lupine switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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