TTC Brother vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer contrasting experiences for users. The Brother stands out for its lightweight nature with a breezy actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both crisp and satisfying. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a distinct, crunchy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Nixie is revered for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, combining tradition with modern innovation from Cherry's recent MX2A update. While the Brother offers an easy-to-press and stepped feel, the Nixie provides a low-pitched, thocky typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Cherry Nixie, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Despite both switches sharing this common material for their bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may still produce slightly different sound profiles when typing.
On the other hand, the TTC Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Cherry Nixie utilizes a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Brother's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clear translucency, which is ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer properties that absorb more sound. While both materials contribute to enhancing the typing experience, they offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
When considering the overall typing experience, the balance between the top and bottom housings of a switch is crucial. With the Brother and Nixie switches having different materials for their top and bottom housings, the sound qualities are split between the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall impact of the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience based on the distinctive properties of their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Brother switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams compared to the Nixie switch at 63.5 grams. However, the Cherry Nixie switch requires a heavier bottom out force at 80 grams, while the bottom out force of the TTC Brother switch is unknown. In terms of actuation force, the Brother switch would provide a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Nixie switch offers a heavier push feel, which some may appreciate for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother. In terms of feel, the Brother may offer a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Nixie may provide a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 all about that satisfying crunch that clicky switch enthusiasts crave. With each key press, you'll be treated to a crisp and precise click that is sure to bring a smile to your face. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound that provides a deep and rich auditory experience. Depending on your personal preference, you may find the crunchy sound of the Brother more appealing or the thocky sound of the Nixie more satisfying.
In terms of feel, the Brother clicky switch prides itself on its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force ensures a comfortable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the tactile bump in the Brother switch provides a stepped feeling, offering a distinct feedback for each key press. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, which may appeal to those who enjoy a bit of friction in their key presses. The Nixie switch does not provide as much information on its specific feel compared to the Brother, so the overall typing experience may vary depending on individual preferences.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in providing a crisp and crunchy sound accompanied by an easy-to-press and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a different auditory and tactile sensation with its thocky sound and textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you're seeking a clicky switch with a light actuation force and crunchy sound, the Brother may be the way to go. But if you prefer a linear switch with a textured feel and a thocky sound, the Nixie could be the perfect fit for you.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, your choice should be based on your desired typing experience. If you prefer a lightweight, tactile, and audibly satisfying switch with a crunchy sound, the Brother switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a substantial heft, a textured typing experience, and a low-pitched thocky sound, then the Nixie switch would be more to your liking. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what resonates most with your typing style.
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