TTC Brother vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch. The TTC Brother is celebrated for its crisp and satisfying clicky feedback, offering a lightweight actuation of 37g for a tactile typing experience that is not overly heavy. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top is tailored for office environments, providing a quieter typing experience with a subtle sound profile and light actuation. While the Brother is ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced click with each keystroke, the Mountain Top is perfect for professionals seeking a discreet and unobtrusive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to best determine which switch is the most suitable for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials for the TTC Brother and the Gateron Mountain Top switches differ in a few key ways. The Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer nature. Both housing materials have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profile- the polycarbonate offering a more clear and resonant sound, while the nylon absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder effect.
On the bottom housing side, both the Brother and the Mountain Top switches use nylon material. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the overall typing experience, creating a more cushioned and satisfying bottom-out sound and feel. While the top and bottom housing materials are the same for both switches, they each play a distinct role in shaping the sound and feel of typing on the switches.
Despite variations in the top and bottom housing materials between the TTC Brother and the Gateron Mountain Top switches, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on both switches. The differences lie in the top housing materials, with the polycarbonate housing of the Brother offering a sharper and crisper sound, contrasting with the fuller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, we can see that the Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Mountain Top's 40 grams. This means that the Brother switch will require less force to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Mountain Top is lighter at 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Brother is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Brother switch may be the preferred choice, as it will be easier to type for extended periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches, with the Brother at 3.5 mm and the Mountain Top at 3.4 mm. Both switches provide a quick and responsive typing experience, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. The Brother clicky switch, with its 3.5 mm travel distance, may feel slightly more substantial and satisfying for users who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, with its slightly shorter 3.4 mm travel distance, may offer a more abrupt and precise typing experience that some users may find crisper. Overall, both switches provide a similar level of responsiveness, with the Brother clicky switch offering a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch.
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 Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 crunchy and satisfying click, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This distinct sound signature is sure to please enthusiasts who enjoy a tactile auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, striking a balance between being audible yet not disruptive. The Mountain Top switch is designed for quiet typing in professional settings, ensuring minimal sound disturbance.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for actuation. This light touch makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. The tactile bump in this switch provides a satisfying feedback without being too harsh, offering a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch provides a bouncy and lively feel, giving users a spring-like feedback when typing. This switch falls into the category of mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in delivering a tactile and crunchy typing experience with a light actuation force, making it a top choice for those who enjoy clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch focuses on providing a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience suitable for office environments. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, each switch offers a unique typing experience tailored to different needs. Whether you prefer a crunchy tactile feedback or a subtle and gentle typing experience, both switches provide quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider the following factors. Opt for the TTC Brother clicky switch if you enjoy a crisp and crunchy sound with a tactile bump that is present yet not overpowering. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a light actuation force and an easy-to-press typing experience. On the other hand, choose the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch if you prefer a quiet typing experience suitable for office environments. This switch offers a gentle resistance and a bouncy, subtle feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a clicky sound and tactile feedback (TTC Brother) or a quiet, smooth typing experience (Gateron Mountain Top). Consider your personal preferences and typing environment to select the switch that best suits your needs.
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