TTC Brother vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch stand out as compelling options for different preferences. The TTC Brother is celebrated for its lightweight actuation of 37g, providing a breezy typing experience without any burden. Its crunchy sound signature and distinct tactile bump cater to clicky switch enthusiasts, offering a precise and satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch is praised for its gentle tactility, a stark contrast to sharper tactile switches in the market. With an angelic tactility and jelly-like sound, this switch provides a more subtle and polished typing experience. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to specific preferences; 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
52g
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 spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Durock Light Tactile both share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, the nylon bottom housing of the Brother and Light Tactile switches differ in the type of sound they produce. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics.
While the top housings of the TTC Brother and the Durock Light Tactile switches produce similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate material, the differences in their bottom housings may lead to variations in the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Brother switch creates a duller and rounder sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Light Tactile switch also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in sound may be more noticeable when typing on the switches, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the key presses.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Durock Light Tactile switches both offer unique sound profiles based on their polycarbonate and nylon components. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound with a sharper tone, the nylon bottom housing of each switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. These differences in sound profiles can affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom and top housings each playing a distinct role in the sound and feel of the key presses. Both switches provide a high-quality construction with their respective housing materials, offering users a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Light Tactile is heavier at 52 grams. The bottom out force of the Brother is unknown, while the Light Tactile requires 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Brother switch would be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Light Tactile switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, selecting the appropriate switch weight can significantly impact the typing or gaming experience based on personal preferences for typing comfort and typing intensity.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother clicky switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Light Tactile tactile switch. This means that the Brother switch may provide a quicker response time, which could be preferred by gamers looking for fast and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance may offer a more substantial feel when typing, which some users may find more comfortable for extended typing sessions. In summary, while both switches provide a similar typing experience, the Brother clicky switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Light Tactile switch.
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 Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This auditory experience is sure to please enthusiasts of clicky switches with its clear, crisp precision. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments without being too overbearing.
Moving on to feel, the Brother switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force promotes a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Brother switch offers a stepped tactile feel, providing distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. In contrast, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild tactility that is gentle and approachable to most users. The switch also boasts a polished finish, ensuring smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in delivering a satisfyingly crunchy sound and an easy-to-press tactile experience with a stepped feel. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a gentle and mild tactile feel with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and while the subjective qualities may vary, users can expect equally satisfying results based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, remember that the Brother is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a light actuation force, a crunchy sound profile, and a balanced tactile bump. It is ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience with a distinct clicky sound. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch is perfect for those seeking a gentler tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force. Its mild tactility and polished finish offer a smooth and refined typing feel that caters to a wide range of users. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback when making your decision. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a light and clicky typing experience or a gentle and polished tactile feel.
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