TTC Brother vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Brother switch is celebrated for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is not cumbersome. With a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, it appeals to clicky switch enthusiasts with its clear and precise clicks. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch stands out for its bouncy feel, thanks to a 22mm long spring, and a frictionless typing experience due to its polycarbonate milky top housing. While the Brother switch is characterized as 'crunchy' and 'easy-to-press', the Orange switch is labeled as 'bouncy' and 'frictionless'. Both switches have their own strengths, offering a distinct typing experience. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and KTT Orange switches share similarities due to both using polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Brother utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Orange sticks with polycarbonate for the bottom housing, emphasizing a sharper and crisper sound.
In terms of sound impact, the housing materials of the TTC Brother and KTT Orange switches play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Nylon in the Brother switch absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while polycarbonate in the Orange switch maintains a clear and resonant sound. Conversely, the top housing material, both being polycarbonate in this case, affects the sound when releasing a key. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound upon key release.
Ultimately, while the TTC Brother and KTT Orange switches may share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the bottom housing material and the resulting sound profiles. The Brother's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding the impact of each housing material on the sound and feel of the key press can help users choose the switch that best matches their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the KTT Orange linear switch. With an actuation force of 37 grams, the Brother requires less pressure to trigger a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Orange switch has a higher actuation force of 46 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. When it comes to bottom out force, the Brother's force is unknown, while the Orange switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. Overall, those seeking a lighter actuation force may opt for the Brother switch, while the Orange switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a heavier typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch is identical, both measuring at 3.5 mm. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect consistent feedback and feel when pressing down on the keys. Whether opting for the TTC Brother clicky switch or the KTT Orange linear switch, users can expect a travel distance that allows for a comfortable typing experience without much variation between the two.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 stands out with a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the final sound experience will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, resulting in a light and effortless typing experience. Additionally, its stepped tactile bump offers a unique typing sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. In contrast, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a bouncy and frictionless feel, characterized by a spring-like feedback and an extremely smooth key travel. These qualities contribute to a lively typing experience with minimal resistance.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that both the TTC Brother clicky switch and KTT Orange linear switch offer distinct advantages in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother excels in providing a crunchy sound profile and an easy-to-press tactile experience, the Orange switch delivers a low-pitched sound and a bouncy, frictionless typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing sensation, but both are sure to provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its lightweight nature and perfect balance of tactile feedback make it a top favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a bouncy feel and low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be the ideal option for you. With its factory-lubed components and unique design, the Orange switch provides a refined and fluid key travel that enhances typing comfort and efficiency. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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