TTC Brother vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch. The Brother clicky switch is renowned for its lightweight actuation of 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both responsive and comfortable. With a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, this switch appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy the audible feedback of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch offers a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for offices or shared spaces where noise is a concern. Featuring a consistent feel from top to bottom and a padded bottom-out for added comfort, the Silent Red switch caters to those seeking a more subtle, polished 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 TTC Silent Red, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Brother and the Silent Red differ in their bottom housing material, with the Brother using nylon and the Silent Red also using nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
Although the TTC Brother and the TTC Silent Red share the same top housing material of polycarbonate, the nylon bottom housing of each switch sets them apart. The Brother's use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar typing experience by absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to stiffer plastics. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for distinct qualities to be felt and heard depending on if you are pressing down on a key or letting go.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the TTC Silent Red play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The difference in material for the bottom housing between the Brother and the Silent Red influences the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, with nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to stiffer plastics. On the other hand, the similarities in the top housing material of polycarbonate result in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Silent Red linear switch's 45 grams. The Brother switch also does not provide information on the bottom out force, while the Silent Red switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience or for longer gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Red switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and response of the switch. Shorter travel distances, like the one on the Brother switch, are preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances, like the one on the Silent Red switch, provide a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for travel distance - shorter for speed or longer for depth.
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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 offers a satisfyingly crunchy experience that is synonymous with clicky switches, providing a crisp and clear sound with each key press. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch delivers a muted sound profile that is perfect for environments where noise might be an issue, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. While the Brother switch appeals to those who enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch, the Silent Red switch caters to individuals seeking a more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Brother switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a gentle resistance that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, its stepped design provides a tactile feel with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is consistent from top to bottom. With a mild and polished feel, these switches offer a comfortable and effortless typing sensation that is approachable to most users.
Overall, both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you enjoy a crunchy sound and easy-to-press, tactile feel, the Brother switch is the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth and buttery feel, the Silent Red switch is the perfect option. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing feel, ensuring that you'll achieve satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you're in a setting where noise is not a concern and you enjoy a tactile and crisp typing experience, the Brother clicky switch would be a fantastic choice. Its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature make it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially for an office or shared living space, the Silent Red linear switch would be the ideal option. With its muted sound profile and smooth keystroke, the Silent Red offers a comfortable and unobtrusive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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