TTC Brother vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Brother stands out for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a breezy tactile experience without feeling burdensome. With a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that will please clicky switch enthusiasts, the Brother also offers a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, the Matcha excels in providing a comfortable and snappy tactility while typing, along with a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. While the Brother is characterized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Matcha is described as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users – 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the KTT Matcha, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is particularly beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for light to shine through. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Brother features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of its top housing for a consistent sound profile.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound profile differs between the Brother and the Matcha. The nylon bottom housing of the Brother contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile of its top housing. These unique qualities of the bottom housing material influence the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch. Additionally, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in switch design.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Brother and the KTT Matcha hinges on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material results in distinct sound characteristics. The Brother's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound profile, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with the sharpness of its top housing. By understanding the impact of different housing materials on sound and feel, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Matcha tactile switch which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the KTT Matcha is lighter with 45 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Brother switch. This means that the Matcha switch will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience while still being relatively light for extended periods of typing. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky or tactile feedback depending on preference, and although their forces vary slightly, users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Matcha switch slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Brother switch. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem like much, but can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The Brother switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Matcha switch provides a bit more depth which some users may find more satisfying to type on. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between travel distance and key feel, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 is celebrated for its crunchy sound that evokes the satisfying sensation of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, a signature sound of clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as producing a distinctive clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences and typing environments. Depending on the keyboard layout and keycaps used, the sound profile of each switch may vary slightly, but overall, users can expect delightful auditory feedback from both options.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and minimal force required for activation. This lightweight actuation enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the Brother switch is noted for its stepped feel, providing a mild tactile sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel as well, along with being snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. These qualities contribute to a responsive typing experience that balances tactility and comfort, making the Matcha switch a versatile option for various typing preferences.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer distinct yet pleasing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother switch excels in providing a crunchy sound and easy-to-press feel with a stepped tactile response, the Matcha switch delivers a clacky sound and a versatile tactile experience that includes snappiness, accentuation, featheriness, and subtleness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches present compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, as both are designed to enhance typing comfort and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prioritize a light and easy-to-press switch with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is the way to go. Its lightweight nature and balanced tactile bump make for a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a clean bottom-out sound and a snappy tactility, opt for the KTT Matcha switch with its light 45g bottom out force and distinct feel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what aspects of typing experience matter most to you.
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