TTC Brother vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Brother and Akko Rosewood offer distinctly different experiences tailored to specific preferences. The TTC Brother clicky switch shines with its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile feedback that is both engaging and easy to press. Its crunchy sound signature and well-defined tactile bump are perfect for those who relish the auditory and physical response of each keystroke, making it an ideal choice for typists and gamers who thrive on that satisfying click. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch provides a smoother keystroke experience with a notable "thock" sound, thanks to its factory-applied lubrication that enhances the feel and sound with every press. This switch appeals to users who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience without the distinct tactile feedback of clicky switches. Both options cater to specific tastes—whether you prefer the nostalgic clickiness of the Brother or the muted elegance of the Rosewood—each brings something unique to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Akko Rosewood, it's evident that there are notable differences primarily in their top housing compositions. The TTC Brother utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. This choice of material also enhances the aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is integrated, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to pass through clearly. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile while effectively absorbing sound. The softer nature of nylon results in a duller and rounder auditory experience, highlighting the more muted characteristics of this housing material.
Both switches share the same material in their bottom housings—nylon—which grants them a fuller and deeper sound when typing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by providing a soft texture and reducing vibrations, thereby enhancing the sound dampening qualities of the switch. This shared bottom housing material means that regardless of the distinction in the top housing, both the TTC Brother and the Akko Rosewood can deliver a harmonious typing experience rooted in the sound dynamics imparted by the nylon material. The bottom housing's influence on the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback during each keystroke remains consistent across both models.
In summary, while the TTC Brother and Akko Rosewood differ significantly in their top housing materials—polycarbonate for the Brother and nylon for the Rosewood—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a commonality in sound and feel. This duality allows each switch to capitalize on the unique qualities provided by their respective top and bottom housings; the Brother's sharper response melds with the Rosewood's rounded depth from the nylon bottom. Thus, users can expect distinct auditory characteristics influenced by the top housings, while still enjoying a cohesive tactile sensation and sound profile from the nylon bottoms.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there are notable differences in weight that cater to various typing preferences. The Brother switch boasts an actuation force of 37 grams, making it a lighter option for those seeking comfort during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. While the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unavailable, the Rosewood's bottom out force is 50 grams, further emphasizing its heavier feel when pressing the key all the way down. Thus, users looking for a lighter touch, with a swift actuation, may favor the TTC Brother, while the Akko Rosewood may be more suitable for those who appreciate the feedback and firmness of a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there is a notable difference. The TTC Brother features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Akko Rosewood, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that users of the Brother switch may experience a more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gaming, where quick reaction times are often prioritized. Conversely, the Rosewood's longer travel distance allows for a more pronounced keypress, which some users may find more satisfying or comfortable, especially for typing. In summary, those who prefer a quicker response might gravitate towards the TTC Brother, while users who enjoy a looser, more tactile experience might opt for the Akko Rosewood.
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 Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 considering sound characteristics, the TTC Brother clicky switch delivers a notably crunchy sound profile that evokes the sensation of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. This satisfying auditory feedback is a hallmark of clicky switches, providing a clear and distinct sound with each keystroke, which can be deeply satisfying for those who appreciate an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is known for producing a deep, thocky sound, enhanced by a layer of factory-applied lubricant. This depth in sound provides a rich acoustic feedback that many linear switch enthusiasts seek. While both switches offer satisfying auditory experiences, they cater to different preferences: the bright clickiness of the Brother versus the smooth, subdued thock of the Rosewood.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is renowned for its lightweight actuation force of just 37g, making it exceptionally easy to press. This design minimizes finger fatigue, ensuring a comfortable typing experience even during extended use. The tactile bump within the switch offers a stepped feeling, allowing for feedback that is pronounced yet not overwhelming. Comparatively, the feel of the Akko Rosewood linear switch remains unknown; however, linear switches are typically smooth with no tactile bump, which would contrast sharply with the intricate feedback of the Brother switch. If the Rosewood maintains this expected linear quality, users can anticipate a very different typing sensation, one that promotes uninterrupted flow without the tactile stimulation offered by the Brother.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch present distinct auditory and tactile experiences suitable for different typing styles and preferences. The Brother favors those who enjoy pronounced sounds and clear feedback, while the Rosewood, with its intriguing thocky timbre, appeals to fans of linear smoothness. Each will provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately hinges on whether you prefer the tactile clicks of a Brother or the smoothness of a Rosewood.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you're drawn to an engaging auditory feedback and tactile sensation, the Brother switch is an excellent choice. Its lightweight actuation combined with a satisfying crunchy sound make it perfect for typists who enjoy an interactive experience without feeling fatigued during long typing sessions. This switch excels in environments where you want to relish each keystroke, such as when typing documents or enjoying a satisfying gaming experience that involves a lot of keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience with a deeper sound profile, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is the way to go. With its heavier bottom-out force and lubricated design producing that distinctive thock sound, it’s a great fit for those seeking a refined typing experience, especially for more serious gaming or for creating content, where quiet precision is essential. Overall, the right switch hinges on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback, or a smooth and silent typing experience; so consider what amplifies your comfort and productivity as you make your choice.
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