TTC Brother vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the TTC Brother and the Gateron Type A offer unique advantages depending on user preferences. The TTC Brother, a clicky switch, is celebrated for its lightweight actuation of only 37g, which allows for a delightful and precise typing experience marked by a satisfying, crunchy sound signature that appeals to enthusiasts of tactile feedback. Its subtle yet distinct tactile bump provides affirmation with each key press while ensuring a smooth overall keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A presents a different prospect as a linear switch, designed with modern travel specifications and enhanced factory lubing techniques, asserting itself as a medium-weight option for those who prefer a quieter and more subdued typing sound. This switch offers a neutral feel, appealing to users who prioritize smoothness and consistency without the distraction of auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you crave the invigorating click of a tactile switch or the fluidity of a linear option. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Type A switches exhibit both notable differences and some similarities that affect their sound profiles and overall performance. The TTC Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, which is renowned for creating a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer composition. This material's translucence also works wonders with RGB lighting, making it a favorable choice for enthusiasts who want visual appeal alongside sound quality. In contrast, the Gateron Type A uses a nylon top housing that contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and more subdued audio experience. This fundamental distinction in material directly influences the auditory outcomes of the switches, with the Brother offering a brighter sound and the Type A a more muted tone.
Both the TTC Brother and the Gateron Type A share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both switches utilize nylon. This choice of material leads to a consistent auditory characteristic in terms of sound dampening. The nylon bottom housing minimizes noise and contributes to a fuller bottom-out feel—an aspect that is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize typing experience. Since both switches share this nylon composition for their bottom halves, the resulting sound profiles will inherently reflect the attributes of this material, promoting a deep and rich auditory experience regardless of how different the top housings may be.
Ultimately, while the TTC Brother and the Gateron Type A differ significantly in their top housing materials—with polycarbonate providing a brighter sound contrasted with nylon's deeper tones—the shared nylon bottom housing unifies their acoustical characteristics. When a key is pressed, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will influence the tactile feedback and sound dampening, leading to a consistent and pleasant experience for users. Conversely, the distinction in top materials means that releases will imbue each switch with a unique character; thus, the overall performance of each switch is a combination of both housing types, affecting how enthusiasts experience sound and feel during their typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The TTC Brother switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Gateron Type A requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This difference indicates that the Brother switch is lighter, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer extended typing sessions without exerting too much effort, such as in a work or gaming environment. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A’s actuation force gives it a more pronounced push feel, catering to those who enjoy a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron Type A is rated at 55 grams, but no information is available for the Brother switch’s bottom out force. This lack of data means we can't make a direct comparison on that aspect. Overall, for users seeking a lighter feel, the TTC Brother switch would be preferable, whereas the Gateron Type A's heavier forces might appeal more to those wanting increased resistance in their key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The TTC Brother features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type A extends to 4 mm. This makes the Brother switch the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers and those who prefer a more responsive feel during key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Type A, with its longer travel distance, may be preferable for users who enjoy a deeper press, providing a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth, as the different travel distances will yield distinct typing sensations.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 provides a distinctively crunchy auditory experience that many enthusiasts cherish. This clicky sound resonates with the crisp pop of stepping on dry leaves, making it not just a keystroke but a satisfying auditory event. In contrast, the Gateron Type A switch offers a more neutral sound signature, leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum and providing a balance favored by both beginners and seasoned users. While not silent, the Type A's sound profile is more subdued compared to the Brother's punchy clicks, making it a more versatile choice for varied environments where noise levels may be a consideration.
In terms of feel, the Brother switch truly shines with its lightweight actuation of 37g, making it incredibly easy to press. This reduced resistance ensures that users can type for extended periods with minimal tension or strain on their fingers. The switch's tactile bump is stepped, allowing for a perceptible yet comfortable feedback without overwhelming the user. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A lacks detailed descriptions of its feel, leaving some uncertainty about its tactile feedback and actuation force. However, these linear switches typically deliver a smooth keystroke, which may appeal to those who prefer a less tactile experience.
In summary, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a unique combination of sound and feel that caters to those who enjoy an engaging auditory and tactile typing experience. Its lightweight actuation and pronounced crunchiness are appealing to users who appreciate clicky switches. Conversely, the Gateron Type A provides a more muted typing experience, perfect for those who favor a subdued sound profile with potential smoothness in operation, although finer aspects of its feel remain unspecified. When choosing between the two, the decision ultimately hinges on personal preferences for auditory feedback and tactile sensation, as both switches provide distinct yet rewarding experiences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, selecting between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and usage scenario. If you are someone who thrives on auditory and tactile feedback, the Brother switch is your best bet. Its lightweight actuation and crunchy sound profile make it not only a joy to type on but also an engaging experience for those who appreciate clicky switches. The easy-to-press nature of the Brother minimizes finger fatigue, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued experience, the Gateron Type A linear switch might be more suitable for you. With a medium-light bottom-out force, it offers a balanced feel that caters to a variety of applications, making it an adaptable choice whether you are typing for work or leisure. Its neutral sound profile allows for a quieter typing experience while still delivering solid performance without being overly taxing. Therefore, consider what aspects—be it the crunchy feedback of the Brother or the more neutral and calm feel of the Gateron Type A—align best with your typing style and environment as you make your decision.
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