TTC Brother vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we find ourselves faced with two exceptional options that cater to different preferences. The Brother stands out for its lightweight design and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a top choice for clicky switch enthusiasts looking for a breezy actuation and clear, crisp precision. On the other hand, the T1 offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. While the Brother is known for its 'Crunchy' and 'Easy-to-press' characteristics, the T1 is praised for being 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the TTC Brother and Durock T1 keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the aesthetics of the switch and provides a unique visual appeal. While both switches share this material in their top housings, they may differ in terms of their bottom housings.
In contrast, the Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the T1 also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as its softer nature absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder tone. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Brother potentially offering a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel compared to the T1. Despite this distinction, both switches benefit from the unique qualities that nylon brings to their respective bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the TTC Brother and Durock T1 keyboards highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches. While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the differing bottom housing materials may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel when typing on these keyboards. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile or a deeper and fuller tone, both the TTC Brother and Durock T1 offer a unique typing experience thanks to their distinct housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch are quite different. The Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the T1's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Brother's bottom out force is unknown. If both switches had the same actuation and bottom out forces, users would likely have a similar typing experience. The weight of a switch is important to consider, as some prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions, while others prefer heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the T1 has a longer travel distance compared to the Brother. The T1's 4 mm travel distance falls within the traditional range, offering a more substantial feel when pressed. On the other hand, the Brother's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the T1 offering a deeper press and the Brother providing a quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 crunchy and satisfying sound experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which can be likened to rain falling on a window. While the Brother switch is known for its clear and crisp clicky sound, the T1 switch delivers a mellow and bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is easy to press, offering a light actuation force of just 37g, making typing effortless and comfortable. It features a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance between being distinctly felt and not overpowering the overall keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, providing a mild and two-stage tactile experience. It is also accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in delivering a lightweight and tactile experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, perfect for clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a mellow sound profile, suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Both switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the TTC Brother clicky switch if you value a lightweight actuation force of 37g, a satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a well-balanced tactile bump that enhances typing precision. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a distinct clicky feel without it becoming overwhelming. On the other hand, choose the Durock T1 tactile switch if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67g, a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump sensation, and a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. This switch is perfect for users seeking a smooth and refined typing feel without compromising on tactility. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback to ensure a satisfying typing experience tailored to your individual needs.
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