TTC Brother vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offer distinct advantages for different types of users. The TTC Brother is a clicky switch favored by enthusiasts for its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature. With a tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance between feedback and subtlety, it is a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch boasts a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists looking for speed and responsiveness without the distraction of clicky feedback. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the TTC Brother and the Outemu Yellow Silver feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. These top housings are ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the diffusion of colorful lighting effects. The similarities in top housing materials between the two switches suggest that users can expect a consistent sound profile from both switches, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize sound quality.
However, the key point of differentiation comes in the bottom housing material used in each switch. The Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics to the Brother. This shared material choice for the bottom housing suggests that users can anticipate a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, while the top housings of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Yellow Silver are identical in their use of polycarbonate, their bottom housing materials differentiate slightly with both featuring nylon. This distinction may impact the typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the softer nature of nylon contributing to a deeper sound profile. Despite this variance, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience between the two switches, with any differences likely to be subtle rather than significant.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Yellow Silver switch is the heavier of the two. The TTC Brother clicky switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Brother switch's force is unknown, whereas the Yellow Silver switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the TTC Brother switch, as the actuation force is lower. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Yellow Silver switch due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the lighter Brother switch being ideal for longer typing sessions and the heavier Yellow Silver switch providing a more solid keystroke experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we can see that the Brother has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Yellow Silver's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a distinctive and enjoyable typing experience with its crunchy sound profile and light actuation force, making it a top choice for clicky switch enthusiasts. The tactile bump is well-balanced, providing clear feedback without feeling overwhelming. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch caters to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, featuring a neutral sound profile and light actuation force. While the sound and feel qualities of the two switches differ, users can expect a similar level of satisfaction and performance from both options depending on their personal preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch boils down to individual typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider your preferences and needs carefully. If you value a lightweight and tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile for gaming or fast typing, the Yellow Silver switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for feel and sound. Take your time to test both switches and choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
