TTC Brother vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Brother stands out for its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a top favorite among clicky switch aficionados. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is preferred for its fast and precise typing experience, with a reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. While the Brother is characterized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Speed Silver is defined as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver, it is evident that they both share polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The similarities in their top housing material indicate that users can expect a similar sound experience when using either switch, especially noticeable when releasing a key.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the TTC Brother features nylon while the TTC Speed Silver also utilizes nylon. Nylon bottom housings tend to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to their polycarbonate counterparts. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in their bottom housing material, both the Brother and the Speed Silver will provide users with a satisfying typing experience, with the nuances of the sound profile influenced by the choice of nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. While both the TTC Brother and the TTC Speed Silver share the same polycarbonate top housing, their differing nylon bottom housings result in subtle variations in sound texture. Users can expect a more resonant and impactful bottom-out sound with the nylon bottom housing, while the polycarbonate top housing will enhance the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the combination of these materials in the Brother and the Speed Silver ensures a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Speed Silver is the heavier of the two, with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Brother's 37 grams. Additionally, the Speed Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Brother's bottom out force is not specified. The actuation force of the Brother switch is lighter, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Brother switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The TTC Brother clicky switch is renowned for its crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This auditory experience is beloved by enthusiasts of clicky switches, offering a clear and precise click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The Speed Silver's sound is moderate and unobtrusive, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. When it comes to feel, the Brother switch is characterized by an easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances key travel.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in providing a tactile and crunchy sound experience, along with an easy-to-press feel that enhances typing comfort. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile suitable for a wide range of users, along with a mild and polished typing feel that ensures a smooth and approachable typing experience. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Brother emphasizing tactile feedback and audible satisfaction, while the Speed Silver prioritizes speed and precision in typing. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and reliable performance based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities for typing experience. If you value a light actuation force, satisfying tactile feedback, and a distinct click sound, the Brother switch would be a fantastic choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a smooth key travel, the Speed Silver switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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