TTC Brother vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Brother stands out for its lightweight nature, audible crunchy sound signature, and perfectly balanced tactile bump, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown lacks a standout feature but provides a tactile typing experience without any specific defining characteristics. If you are looking for a switch that offers a satisfyingly crisp click and easy-to-press keys, the TTC Brother may be the ideal choice for you. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Crystal Brown, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. This similarity in top housing material ensures that both the TTC Brother and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer a similar auditory experience, emphasizing clarity and sharpness in sound production.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same deep and full sound experience as the Brother. This shared material for the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Brother and the Outemu Crystal Brown lie mainly in their top housing components. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that produce a clear and resonant sound profile, the Brother and the Crystal Brown differentiate themselves with their nylon bottom housings. The Brother provides a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its softer nylon bottom housing, while the Crystal Brown offers a similar typing experience with its own nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials impacts the sound production and overall typing sensation of both switches, catering to different preferences in sound profile.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Brother switch does not have a specified value, while the Crystal Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. The difference in actuation force means that the Brother switch may be easier to activate with a lighter touch, while the Crystal Brown switch requires a bit more pressure. Both switches provide a satisfying clicky feel when typing, but the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Crystal Brown switch. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Brother switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Crystal Brown switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 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 noise that resonates with every key press, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy the classic clicky feel. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, case material, and keycap design.
Moving on to the tactile feel, the Brother switch offers an easy-to-press experience with its light actuation force of 37g, providing a comfortable typing sensation that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the tactile bump in the Brother switch is subtle yet distinct, striking a perfect balance between feedback and smooth keystrokes. Conversely, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are not provided, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this regard.
Overall, while the TTC Brother clicky switch shines in both sound and feel departments with its crunchy noise and easy-to-press tactile feedback, details about the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are scarce. However, based on the available information for the Brother switch, it is safe to assume that the Crystal Brown switch may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel. As an expert in mechanical keyboard switches, it is always recommended to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lightweight actuation force, a satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a perfectly balanced tactile bump, the TTC Brother clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile switch with a different feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire, so choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and typing style.
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