TTC Brother vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Brother and the HMX Twilight present distinctive options tailored to different user preferences. The TTC Brother, a clicky switch, provides a lightweight typing experience with a 37g actuation force and incorporates a silicone dampening pad, which minimizes the noise typically associated with clicky switches while still delivering satisfying tactile feedback. This makes it an excellent choice for both gamers and typists who appreciate audible feedback without the overwhelming sound. In contrast, the HMX Twilight is a linear switch that boasts an extended 3.85mm travel distance, offering a quieter operation while preserving the signature clacky feel of HMX switches. Its 'bouncy' feedback might appeal to users who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without tactile bumps or audible clicks. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean toward the satisfying feedback of a clicky switch or the fluidity and quietness of a linear switch. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the HMX Twilight, it becomes evident that there are both similarities and differences that affect their sound profiles and the overall typing experience. The TTC Brother's top housing is constructed from polycarbonate, a material known for its rigidity and translucence. This feature contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting applications. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller noise when typing. While both switches offer a distinctive typing experience, the variances in their top housing materials ultimately lead to differences in sound character—one clear and bright, the other deeper and rounder.
When examining the bottom housings, both the TTC Brother and the HMX Twilight employ nylon, which greatly influences the sound profile associated with bottoming out. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, contributing to a more muted and subdued weight to each keystroke. As both switches feature nylon bottom housings, typing on either model will elicit that familiar deeper, fuller sound associated with such materials. Consequently, while the Brother's polycarbonate top adds brightness to the sound profile when releasing a key, the nylon bottom grounds the experience, providing a blend of satisfying tactile feedback during both keypress and release.
The distinctive combination of materials in the TTC Brother and HMX Twilight means that typists can choose based on their auditory preferences. Those seeking a brighter, resonant typing experience may lean towards the TTC Brother, benefiting from the polycarbonate top's acoustic clarity. Conversely, for individuals who favor a more rounded and softer sound, the HMX Twilight's nylon top may be more appealing. Nonetheless, the shared nylon bottom across both models allows for a relatively similar bottoming-out experience, providing users with satisfying feedback regardless of the switch they choose. Thus, while the top housing materials vary significantly, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches present a familiar tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces and known bottom out measures. The Brother switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer less resistance and longer typing sessions, such as in work or gaming environments. In contrast, the HMX Twilight has a heavier actuation force of 42 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While the Twilight also has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, the Brother's bottom out force remains unknown, which limits a direct comparison in that area. Overall, users seeking a lighter feel may prefer the TTC Brother switch, while those who favor a darker, heavier push will likely gravitate toward the HMX Twilight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we observe a clear distinction. The TTC Brother has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Twilight features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the Brother switch provides a shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the longer 3.85 mm travel distance of the Twilight switch caters to those who prefer a more substantial feel with additional depth when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences: if you favor responsiveness, the TTC Brother is the better option, while the HMX Twilight might appeal to those who appreciate a more robust key press experience.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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 stands out with its crunchy sound profile, akin to stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. This unique auditory experience is enhanced by the silicone dampening pad, which tones down the typical clicky noise, making it less jarring compared to traditional clicky switches. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch is designed to produce a slightly quieter sound with its extended travel distance of 3.85mm. While it maintains the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches, its linear design inherently minimizes abrupt sound, resulting in a more subdued typing experience. Overall, while both switches have distinct sound qualities, the Brother offers a richer clicky sound due to its design, whereas the Twilight provides a quieter, smoother alternative.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother delivers a stepped tactile experience. This means that typists will notice a two-stage response when pressing down on the key, providing a mix of pre-travel and post-travel feedback that adds a layer of satisfaction during typing or gaming sessions. The mild tactile bump can be appreciated by those who seek a balanced blend of feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight excels with its bouncy feel, characterized by a spring-like response that delivers a lively sensation during keystrokes. The elasticity in the switch gives typists a noticeable rebound effect, heightening the engagement with each press. Thus, while the Brother focuses on a controlled tactile experience, the Twilight emphasizes a dynamic and responsive feedback.
In conclusion, both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Brother’s crunchy yet muted click provides a satisfying auditory cue alongside its stepped tactile feedback, making it appealing for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without excessive noise. Conversely, the Twilight’s quieter operation combined with a bouncy feel creates a lively, responsive typing environment suited for users who favor a linear switch. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or a smoother, quieter typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a lightweight typing experience that offers tactile feedback with a satisfying click, the Brother switch is an excellent option. Its 37g actuation force combined with a uniquely muted click sound allows you to enjoy the benefits of clicky switches while minimizing noise, making it suitable for both typing and gaming in shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional linear switch experience that emphasizes smoothness and a bit of bounce, the HMX Twilight should be your go-to. With its extended travel distance and 50g bottom-out force, it offers a springy feel that many typists and gamers appreciate, especially when quiet operation is a priority. In summary, choose the Brother for a delightful balance of tactility and quieter operation, while the Twilight will appeal to those who crave a lively, bouncy keystroke.
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