TTC Brother vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch are both popular choices with distinctive characteristics. The TTC Brother stands out for its lightweight nature, breezy actuation of 37g, and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a preferred option for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is known for its all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch at an affordable price point. While the Brother offers a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Smoothie provides a smooth and quiet keystroke. 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
40g
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Smoothie differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the POM top housing of the Smoothie, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound profile, while the POM material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the Brother's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie also adds to the unique sound profile of the switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the TTC Brother and the Gateron Smoothie, both switches aim to provide a unique and pleasing sound experience for users. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Brother allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Smoothie offers a different type of sound experience, with a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the nylon bottom housing of the Brother creates a fuller sound, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie contributes to the overall unique sound profile of the switch.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings play different roles in the sound profile and feel of the switches. The qualities of the top housing material, whether it be polycarbonate or POM, will impact the sound when a key is released, while the characteristics of the bottom housing material, such as nylon or POM, will be more noticeable during typing and bottoming out. Both switches offer their own unique blend of housing materials to create an enjoyable typing experience, with the Brother focusing on a sharper and crisper sound, while the Smoothie offers a deeper and more muted sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we can see that the Brother is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have an unknown value. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Brother switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of force needed for key actuation.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to traditional 4.0 mm travel distances. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Brother switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience may find the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Smoothie switch to be more satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound with clear and crisp precision, perfect for those who enjoy the audible feedback of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky sound signature that is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the sound preference between the Brother and the Smoothie will come down to personal taste, as both switches offer distinct auditory experiences.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing a gentle resistance during key presses and a light actuation force for effortless typing. Additionally, it features a stepped feel, offering a two-stage tactile experience that is mild and comfortable. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and effortless. This means that the Smoothie switch prioritizes smoothness and uniformity in typing sensation, which may appeal to those seeking a more luxurious typing experience.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother excels in delivering a crunchy tactile experience and clear, precise clicks, the Smoothie focuses on a thocky sound signature and a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches are excellent choices that will provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. So, regardless of your choice, you can expect to get impressive results with either the TTC Brother or the Gateron Smoothie switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a tactile feedback with a balanced tactile bump, the Brother clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound, smooth keystrokes, and a lightweight touch, then the Gateron Smoothie linear switch would be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel during typing.
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