Gateron Aliaz vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for different preferences are the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the TTC Light Cloud V2, a linear switch. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments such as the office due to their silent design. They provide a medium-heavy weight, offering a substantial feel to each keystroke for those who prefer pronounced typing feedback without noise. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 from TTC is known for its refined typing feel and lightweight design, making it a great choice for those seeking a delicate and nuanced typing experience. The Aliaz switch is described as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', while the Light Cloud V2 is labeled as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different typing 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Light Cloud V2, we can see that the Aliaz features polycarbonate top and bottom housings, while the Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon for both top and bottom. The polycarbonate in the Aliaz creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon used in the Light Cloud V2 provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and producing a duller, rounder tone. While the Aliaz's polycarbonate housing offers a clear and resonant sound, the Light Cloud V2's nylon housing elicits a more subdued and muffled effect.
Despite their differences, both switches share similar characteristics in terms of their respective top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aliaz and the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 each contribute to the overall sound profile when a key is released, affecting the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches have an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the stiffer polycarbonate creating a sharper sound in the Aliaz, and the softer nylon producing a fuller tone in the Light Cloud V2.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Light Cloud V2 comes down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. The Aliaz's polycarbonate housing offers a crisper and more resonant sound, while the Light Cloud V2's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. Whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate or the roundness of nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aliaz requires 75 grams of force while the Light Cloud V2 requires 58 grams. This means that the Aliaz switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the Light Cloud V2 provides a lighter touch for smoother typing. Both switches have different weights, with the Aliaz being heavier and the Light Cloud V2 being lighter, making them suitable for different preferences. The actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience, with some users preferring a lighter touch for extended typing sessions and others opting for a heavier feel for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, we can see that the Aliaz has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Light Cloud V2's 3.5 mm. The Aliaz offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more cushioning when typing. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing between the shorter and longer travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Light Cloud V2 switches are described as producing a muted sound, making them ideal choices for environments where noise level is a concern. While the Aliaz is specifically noted for its muted sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 offers a more neutral sound, suitable for various purposes. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard type and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, with a feathery touch that requires minimal exertion from the fingers. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Aliaz offering a more pronounced feedback due to its medium-heavy weight compared to the light actuation force of the Light Cloud V2.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a switch with a more substantial feel and a quieter sound, the Aliaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a delicate and nuanced typing experience with a light touch, the Light Cloud V2 could be the ideal fit. Ultimately, both switches offer a refined and comfortable typing experience, albeit with slight differences in weight and actuation force. Feel free to try out both options to see which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and your specific typing needs. If you are looking for a switch that offers a medium-heavy weight and a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise, the Aliaz may be the better choice for you, especially if you work in a quiet environment like an office. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more nuanced typing experience with minimal resistance, the Light Cloud V2 could be the ideal option for you, offering a smooth and gentle typing feel that is enjoyable for extended typing sessions. Both switches are muted in sound, making them suitable for environments where noise level is a concern. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you desire and where you will be using the keyboard.
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