TTC Brother vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother and the Gateron Melodic stand out as exceptional choices in the clicky switch category. The TTC Brother is praised for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is easy on the fingers yet still satisfyingly crisp and precise. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic introduces advancements such as factory lubing and dual-railed stems to offer a smooth typing experience without sacrificing the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. While the Brother is known for its crunchy and easy-to-press feel, the Melodic is described as buttery and invigorating. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Melodic have some similarities when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
Where the switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Brother's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound, which may be preferred by users looking for a more muted typing experience. Similarly, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing offers the same qualities, providing a deep and full sound when typing on the switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the TTC Brother and the Gateron Melodic results in a balanced sound profile for both switches. While the top housing impacts the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound with nylon, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we can see that the Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Melodic which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Melodic has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Brother is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Brother may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Melodic may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic switch. The 0.5 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Brother switch with the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more robust and traditional key press experience may lean towards the Gateron Melodic switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 sound signature that is sure to please enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as having a resonant sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches deliver on the classic clicky sound, but the Brother may offer a more distinctive and bold click compared to the more refined sound of the Melodic. Ultimately, the sound preference comes down to personal taste, with the Brother appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced click while the Melodic caters to those seeking a smoother and more immersive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and a light actuation force of 37g. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is uniform and seamless. The Melodic also offers an invigorating typing sensation, with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel that enhances the overall typing experience. While the Brother may appeal to those who prefer a gentler and easier keystroke, the Melodic is ideal for users seeking a more dynamic and reactive feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Brother and Gateron Melodic clicky switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Brother excels in delivering a distinctive and crunchy sound paired with an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Melodic provides a more refined and buttery sound with an invigorating and responsive feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience, but rest assured that both switches will provide a premium clicky switch experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, you should consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lightweight actuation force and a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium actuation force and a clean, sharp sound profile, along with a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what attributes are most important to you before making a decision.
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