HMX 1989 vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly affect your typing experience. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and thocky sound profile, is a favorite among gamers and typists who appreciate a tactile thump with every keystroke. This switch is designed to deliver a rich acoustics experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 offers a contrasting experience with its lightweight and silent operation, making it one of the preferred silent switches on the market. It’s perfect for those who prioritize a delicate and nuanced typing feel, ideal for quiet environments or longer typing sessions without the distraction of noise. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts seeking smooth keystrokes, their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences and use cases. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 switches and the TTC Light Cloud V2, a key distinction lies in the materials used for the top housing. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing that is designed to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality arises from polycarbonate's stiffer structure, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucence of polycarbonate makes it a versatile choice for RGB lighting setups, allowing for a vibrant illumination effect. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 opts for a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon results in sound absorption, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. Thus, while both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the upper housing variations contribute significantly to their overall acoustic characteristics.
The bottom housing of both switches, constructed from nylon, provides a similar auditory experience—a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of this material. The nylon used in both the HMX 1989 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and richer bottom-out sound. The similar use of nylon allows for a consistent tactile feel when bottoming out the keys across both models. Therefore, while the top housings of these switches lead to different sound profiles, the nylon bottom housings serve to anchor both switches in terms of texture and auditory depth. Users can expect a comparable feel and sound when the key is fully pressed down, which is essential for a satisfying typing experience.
In summary, the differences in the top housing materials give the HMX 1989 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 distinctly different sound profiles, even as both switches share the same material for their bottom housings. The polycarbonate top of the HMX 1989 allows for a bright and resonant sound, perfectly complemented by its RGB lighting capability, while the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 offers a warmer and fuller auditory experience. However, because both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they share a commonality in terms of rounded sound and tactile feedback when keys are pressed. This combination suggests that while the switches differ in their upper housing characteristics, users can still enjoy similar overall results in terms of feel and depth of sound when actuating the keys.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, both switches exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting a similar feel when it comes to registering a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the HMX 1989 at 53 grams and the TTC Light Cloud V2 at 58 grams. This difference means that while both switches provide a consistent actuation experience, the TTC Light Cloud V2 requires a slightly heavier force to bottom out, contributing to a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer that feel. Therefore, the HMX 1989 can be considered the lighter option overall, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, while the TTC Light Cloud V2, being heavier at the bottom out stage, may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer feedback when they fully press a key.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, the HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance reflects varying user preferences: gamers and those seeking quicker response times may gravitate towards the TTC Light Cloud V2 for its snappier feel, while users who appreciate a more substantial depth in their key presses might prefer the HMX 1989's longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The TTC Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
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 considering the sound profile of these two switches, the HMX 1989 linear switch stands out due to its deep and thocky character, which can provide a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This makes it a desirable option for users who enjoy a fuller sound experience that resonates with each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is designed to be much quieter, featuring a muted sound profile that significantly reduces the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The neutral aspect of its sound allows it to serve well in diverse environments, making it suitable for both office and home use without drawing undue attention. Overall, if you're after an immersive sound, the 1989 will deliver, while the Light Cloud V2 opts for discretion.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch is known for its robust and satisfying typing experience, though specifics about its tactile feedback are not provided. Users often appreciate a switch that balances both response and comfort, and while the exact feel of the 1989 isn't elaborated upon here, its reputation hints at a satisfying journey through each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 offers a mild yet refined typing experience, making it a great option for those who prefer gentle resistance and minimal force during key presses. The switch’s light actuation and feathery feel ensure that users can type for extended periods without discomfort, resulting in a particularly enjoyable and fatigue-free typing environment.
In conclusion, the HMX 1989 and TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches cater to different preferences and environments. Those who prioritize rich sound may gravitate towards the thocky 1989, while those seeking a quieter and more refined feel will likely find the Light Cloud V2 to be a perfect match. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can lead to satisfying typing experiences under different circumstances; choosing between them will depend on whether sound or overall typing comfort takes precedence in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch will ultimately depend on your specific preferences and use cases. If you enjoy a medium-light actuation force that combines thockiness with a deeper sound profile, the HMX 1989 is likely the better option for you, especially if you’re a gamer looking for a tactile response that makes each keystroke feel satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a refined and muted typing experience, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is an excellent choice, particularly for office environments or quiet settings, thanks to its slightly higher actuation force and a softer sound. The Light Cloud V2's easy-to-press, feathery nature makes it ideal for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue significantly. Ultimately, consider where and how you will be using your keyboard—whether it's for gaming, professional work, or casual typing—to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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