TTC Brother vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both offer unique advantages catered to different preferences. The TTC Brother is renowned for its lightweight nature, providing a breezy actuation of just 37g, making it easy to press and perfect for those who enjoy a tactile experience without feeling burdensome. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S boasts a weightier 65g bottom-out, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial keystroke. While the Brother produces a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature beloved by clicky switch enthusiasts, the Type S offers a more neutral and subdued acoustic experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Type S switches, we see that both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. However, the Brother utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type S's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Brother switch is stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Type S's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
While the Brother switch features a nylon bottom housing similar to the Type S, the difference lies in their top housings. The combination of a nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing in the Brother switch results in a unique sound profile that combines the deeper and fuller sound from the nylon with the sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate. In comparison, the Type S switch maintains a consistent sound profile throughout, with both the top and bottom housings made of nylon. The impact on the sound profile when pressing down on a key versus letting go of a key will vary between the two switches due to the different housing materials used.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Brother and Gateron Type S switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. The Brother switch offers a combination of sharper, higher-pitched sounds from the polycarbonate top housing and deeper, fuller sounds from the nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Type S switch provides a more consistent, rounder sound profile throughout due to both its top and bottom housings being made of nylon. Depending on whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound or a duller and rounder sound, you can choose the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in actuation force and bottom out force. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, compared to the 55 grams required for the Type S switch. This means that the Brother switch will be easier to press down initially to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Type S switch requires 65 grams of force, while the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown. This indicates that the Type S switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel compared to the Brother switch. Ultimately, the lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may be preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the Type S switch may be favored for those who enjoy a more solid and deliberate typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Type S linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother switch offers a quicker response time, making it popular among gamers who value speed and agility in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch provides a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press 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 Gateron Type S 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that is distinct and precise, making it a favorite among enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound experience, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. While the Brother switch delivers a more audible and pronounced click with each keystroke, the Type S switch offers a more subtle and muted sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and the desired typing atmosphere.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature with a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the tactile bump in the Brother switch strikes a perfect balance between being felt distinctly yet not overpowering the overall keystroke. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is currently unknown. Nevertheless, based on the description of its weightier 65g bottom-out, it can be inferred that the Type S switch offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience compared to the lightweight Brother switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother switch excels in providing a crunchy and tactile sound signature along with an easy-to-press typing experience, the Type S switch focuses on a more neutral and subdued sound profile, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, typing feel, and the overall desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance the typing experience and cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a lightweight actuation force and a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a more neutral and subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type S switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enjoy a seamless and satisfying typing experience.
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