TTC Brother vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the distinctions between the TTC Brother and the HMX SU are notable and can significantly affect your typing experience. The TTC Brother is a clicky switch that delights users with its lightweight action of just 37g, making each keystroke feel effortless. Its signature crunchy sound and tactile feedback provide an engaging experience, perfect for those who enjoy audible keystrokes and a tactile sensation that enhances typing accuracy. Conversely, the HMX SU, classified as a linear switch, offers a smoother and quieter experience thanks to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, catering to gamers and typists who prefer a seamless and uninterrupted keystroke without the distraction of clicking sounds. While the Brother appeals to those who thrive on the feedback and sound of each keypress, the SU attracts individuals looking for smoothness and stability. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
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 HMX SU switches, it’s evident that they employ different materials for the top housings, which significantly influences the overall sound profiles of each switch. The Brother features a polycarbonate top housing that is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic arises from polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances its resonance and clarity. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination when used in keyboards designed for visual effects. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's softer composition, which dampens vibrations and results in a sound that is more muted and rounded compared to the clearer and crisper output of polycarbonate.
While the top housings of the two switches are distinct, both the Brother and the SU utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material means that the two switches will yield a similar bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. The nylon's ability to absorb sound provides both switches with a deeper acoustic quality, leading to a fuller auditory experience at the base of the keystroke. Therefore, despite the differences in top housing materials leading to variations in higher sound frequencies, the bottom housings balance these differences by delivering a consistent, rounder sound when bottoming out the switch.
In summary, the differing materials of the top housings in the TTC Brother and HMX SU result in contrasting sound profiles during key releases, yet both switches harmonize through their nylon bottom housings. Consequently, users can expect a richness in sound at the lower frequencies for both switches, while the unique qualities of the top materials shape their overall auditory experience distinctly. For those seeking a sharper sound may prefer the Brother, whereas those who favor a warmer sound might gravitate toward the HMX SU, reflecting how the choice of housing materials plays a critical role in defining the character of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX SU linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Brother switch features an actuation force of 37 grams, while the SU switch requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that the Brother switch is lighter and may be more suitable for users looking for a less strenuous typing experience, perfect for extended use during work or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unavailable, making it impossible to draw direct comparisons on that front. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is classified as light. For those who favor a more substantial typing experience, the heavier actuation force of the SU switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, if you're seeking a lighter touch, the TTC Brother switch is the better option, while the HMX SU linear switch may cater to those preferring a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the TTC Brother measures at 3.5 mm, while the HMX SU has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the TTC Brother the shorter of the two switches, providing a more responsive, snappier feel that can benefit gamers looking for quicker key presses. In contrast, the HMX SU's longer 3.6 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer the more pronounced tactile feedback associated with deeper key presses. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on personal preference; if one favors a more immediate response, the TTC Brother would be the better option, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes might prefer the HMX SU.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 delivers a satisfyingly crunchy auditory experience that clicky switch enthusiasts rave about. Each keystroke produces a clear, crisp sound that is reminiscent of walking on crunchy autumn leaves, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a more subtle and relatively deep sound profile, although specific descriptors for its sound are not provided. This variance in sound indicates that while the Brother may create a more lively atmosphere with its pronounced clicks, the HMX SU is likely to cater to users who prefer a more understated and quieter typing experience, though the ultimate sound signature may also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap choices used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother showcases a lightweight design with an actuation force of just 37g, making it exceptionally easy to press. Its tactile feedback is characterized as stepped, offering a mild yet discernible bump that provides satisfaction without overwhelming the typist. This thoughtful design promotes extended typing without significant finger fatigue, emphasizing a comfortable and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, linear switches are generally known for their smooth and consistent keystrokes without tactile feedback, which diverges from the tactile nature of the Brother.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and HMX SU linear switch present distinct auditory and tactile experiences, catering to different preferences among typists. The Brother's crunchy sound and easy-to-press feel make it an excellent option for those who enjoy tactile feedback and pronounced audio cues, while the SU appeals to individuals who may lean towards a quieter and more subtle approach, although specifics about its feel are yet to be determined. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that both options can deliver enjoyable typing experiences but in uniquely different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX SU linear switch, your preferences and typing habits will play a pivotal role in making the right choice. If you lean towards a tactile and auditory experience that enhances your typing with pronounced feedback and satisfying clicks, the Brother switch is your best bet. Its lightweight actuation force of 37g ensures that you can type comfortably for extended periods without experiencing finger fatigue, making it ideal for users who appreciate a lively typing environment, such as gamers and typists who enjoy the nostalgic feel of clicky switches. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience where the actuation is steady and consistent, the HMX SU linear switch will serve you well. With its gentle 50g bottom-out force, it offers a moderate resistance that is perfect for those who favor relaxed typing or gaming, allowing you to type fluidly without audible distractions. In summary, your choice hinges upon whether you derive joy from the tactile and audible markers of typism with the Brother or if you seek the seamless, linear motion that the SU switch provides. Each has its merits, so consider what best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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