TTC Brother vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the satisfying click of a traditional clicky switch and the smooth responsiveness of linear alternatives. The TTC Brother clicky switch is a prime example of the former, celebrated for its lightweight actuation at just 37g, offering a tactile experience that feels effortless. This switch not only delivers a delightful, crunchy sound with every keystroke but also integrates a pronounced tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance between feedback and comfort. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, a modern revival of the original MX Orange, has been meticulously designed to meet the evolving demands of users while retaining the smooth, uninterrupted flow characteristic of linear switches. Similar to the Brother, the MX Orange is appreciated for its responsiveness, making it an alluring choice for gamers and typists alike who prefer rapid keystrokes without tactile distractions. Each switch offers unique advantages depending on user preference for sound and feedback, thereby influencing typing dynamics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
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 TTC Brother and Cherry MX Orange switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which leads to distinct sound profiles during typing. The TTC Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is advantageous for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory response while typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange uses a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is softer than polycarbonate, it absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in top housing material is crucial, as it influences the initial auditory feedback when the key is released.
Both switches share nylon for their bottom housings, which brings similar acoustic qualities to the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in both the TTC Brother and Cherry MX Orange switches promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile, making each keystroke feel more substantial and resonant. Given the softness of nylon, the bottom housing of both switches effectively absorbs sound, dampening higher frequencies and creating a more muted auditory sensation when bottoming out. This means that regardless of the differences in the top housings, users of either switch will still experience a rounded sound when pressing down a key, giving them a sense of familiarity in the tactile feedback and acoustic response.
While the different materials used for the top housings shape the overall sound experience, the similarities in the nylon bottom housings ensure that users will enjoy a cohesive typing sensation. Those who enjoy the brighter tones provided by polycarbonate in the TTC Brother may find that the warmth of the nylon bottom still delivers a pleasant typing experience, while Cherry MX Orange users can appreciate the rich depth offered by the combination of their nylon build. Consequently, although the top housings create contrasting auditory profiles, both switches can ultimately deliver satisfying tactile feedback and sound quality through their shared bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, a notable difference lies in their actuation forces. The TTC Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it potentially more comfortable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, especially for those who prefer a less strenuous keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel that provides tactile feedback. Both switches have their bottom out forces listed as unavailable, which means we cannot directly compare how they feel when pressed all the way down. However, given that the TTC Brother is lighter than the Cherry MX Orange, users who prioritize ease of keypress and prolonged use might lean toward the Brother switch, while those seeking a firmer resistance could opt for the Cherry MX Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the TTC Brother features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the TTC Brother offers a shorter travel distance, which can enhance responsiveness and make it more suitable for fast-paced gaming environments where quick key presses are essential. However, the Cherry MX Orange's longer 4 mm travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile experience, appealing to users who prefer a deeper keystroke and find shorter distances too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the balance between responsiveness and key feel.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 delights users with its crunchy auditory signature, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. This satisfying sound enhances the typing experience for those who enjoy the characteristic clicks of clicky switches. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange linear switch does not possess specific sound characteristics detailed in the provided information; however, it can generally be inferred that linear switches like the MX Orange tend to be quieter and more subdued compared to their clicky counterparts, focusing primarily on a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke without the added auditory feedback of a click.
In terms of feel, the Brother switch offers a lightweight and easy-to-press experience, requiring just 37g of actuation force, which makes it comfortable for extended use and minimizes finger fatigue. Its tactile feedback is evident in a stepped manner, providing a clear but not overwhelming distinction during each keystroke. The MX Orange switch, on the other hand, lacks specific descriptors regarding its tactile feel in this context, but given that it is a linear switch, it is expected to offer a smooth and uninterrupted pressing experience, focusing more on consistent actuation without the pronounced tactile bump of a clicky switch.
In summary, the TTC Brother clicky switch is an excellent choice for those who appreciate both the auditory pleasure and tactile feedback that a clicky switch provides, while also being easy on the fingers. The Cherry MX Orange linear switch, though quieter, likely offers a smooth typing experience that many find appealing, especially for long typing sessions. Ultimately, if sound and tactile feedback are prioritized, the Brother switch will shine, while those favoring a clean, linear action may naturally gravitate towards the MX Orange. While both switches serve different preferences and experiences, understanding their qualities will aid newcomers in selecting the right switch for their mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for a delightful tactile and auditory experience, particularly if you enjoy the satisfying crunch that comes with clicky switches, the TTC Brother is your go-to option. Its lightweight actuation and distinct tactile feedback make it ideal for typists who relish that immersive engagement with each keystroke while keeping finger fatigue at bay during extended typing sessions. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without the auditory distractions of clicks, the Cherry MX Orange, with its refined enhancements from the original, could be more suitable for you. While the MX Orange maintains an esteemed reputation, it caters to those who appreciate a more linear feel, offering a consistent keystroke without the pronounced tactile bump of its clicky counterpart. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you anticipate using your keyboard—whether you value a dynamic, clicky typing style or a seamless, quiet approach to your keystrokes.
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