TTC Brother vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, there are distinct differences that may appeal to different preferences. The TTC Brother stands out with its lightweight nature and breezy actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is comfortable and precise. The satisfyingly crunchy sound signature of the Brother is sure to please clicky switch enthusiasts, along with its perfectly balanced tactile bump. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold lacks a standout feature but may still offer a satisfying 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Gold switches share similar characteristics when it comes to the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound experience. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for switch housings. Therefore, users can expect a consistent sound profile and visual appeal with both the Brother and Gold switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
On the other hand, the differences appear when comparing the nylon bottom housing of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Gold switches. While both switches feature nylon bottom housing, the tactile experience and sound profile they offer are distinct. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This leads to a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users may notice a variation in sound and typing experience when pressing down on keys between the Brother and Gold switches due to their different nylon bottom housing materials.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Gold switches play a crucial role in determining their sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that results in a sharp and clear sound profile, their nylon bottom housing materials contribute to distinct tactile experiences. The TTC Brother's nylon bottom housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Outemu Gold's nylon bottom housing creates a rounder and duller sound. Despite these differences, users can expect a consistent visual appeal and RGB lighting compatibility from both switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Brother switch has an unknown value, while the Gold switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a stronger push feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Brother switch may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, users looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Outemu Gold switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold switch, making it potentially more appealing to gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold switch being on the longer side and the Brother switch slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Gold 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 satisfyingly crunchy sound that resonates with each key press, providing a crisp and precise auditory experience for users. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound quality is not available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches are clicky switches and are likely to offer similar results in terms of sound quality, depending on the user's setup with their keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force of just 37g, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the tactile bump in the Brother switch strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable yet not overpowering, providing a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, information on the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is unavailable, so direct comparisons in this aspect are challenging. However, since both switches are clicky switches, they are likely to offer a similar typing experience in terms of feel, once again depending on individual preferences and setup.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother and Outemu Gold clicky switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Brother switch stands out for its lightweight and easy-to-press nature, providing a tactile and audible experience that delights enthusiasts of clicky switches. While information on the Outemu Gold switch is limited, it is safe to assume that both switches, being clicky switches, will offer similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on individual preferences and the overall keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Brother and Outemu Gold clicky switches will depend on the user's specific typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you value a lightweight switch with a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a gentle tactile bump, then the TTC Brother clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with specific characteristics, such as a stepped feel, then the Outemu Gold clicky switch may be more suited to your typing style. Both switches have their unique qualities, so it's important to consider your personal preferences before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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