TTC Brother vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch offer unique 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 smooth and satisfying. Its distinct crunchy sound signature will please clicky switch enthusiasts, while the tactile bump strikes a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple is a tactile switch with a different appeal, categorized by its lack of specific standout features. Overall, the Brother is ideal for those who enjoy a clicky typing experience, while the Purple may appeal to users looking for a more standard tactile feel. 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
50g
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
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 Purple, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. The similarities in top housing materials of these switches indicate that users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either the TTC Brother or the Outemu Purple.
However, when looking at the bottom housings of these switches, a contrast emerges. The Brother features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Purple also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar quality of creating a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Ultimately, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches results in distinct typing experiences. While both the TTC Brother and the Outemu Purple share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound profile, the contrast in bottom housing materials, nylon for both switches, highlights the differences in sound characteristics when typing on each switch. These differences underscore the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Purple switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have a force of None grams, which is not specified. This means that while both switches may result in a similar bottom out force, the Brother switch will require a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Purple switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Brother switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Purple switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Purple has a longer travel distance compared to the TTC Brother. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Typically, a shorter travel distance results in faster response times, making it preferred by gamers looking for quick keystrokes. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystroke, which is favored by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing 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 Outemu Purple 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 profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This distinctive sound is a hallmark of clicky switches and is sure to please enthusiasts who enjoy audibly responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Purple tactile switch remain unknown at this time, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers an easy-to-press experience with a light actuation force of just 37g, making typing effortless and comfortable. This switch also features a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Purple switch are currently unavailable. The absence of information on its tactile feedback makes it challenging to draw a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of feel.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch stands out for its lightweight and tactile nature, delivering a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature and easy-to-press feel for a delightful typing experience. While information on the Outemu Purple tactile switch is limited in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these switches. If you enjoy a crisp and clicky typing experience with a light touch, the TTC Brother switch may be the ideal choice for you. Remember to explore different switch options and test them out firsthand to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lightweight and breezy typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, along with a tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance, then the TTC Brother clicky switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a different actuation force and tactile feedback, you may find the Outemu Purple tactile switch more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make your decision based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.
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