Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Light Cloud V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to consider the unique qualities that each switch offers. The Aqua King (V3) is renowned for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. Categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', it provides a magical typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 from TTC is celebrated for its refined and silent typing feel, ideal for those seeking a delicate and nuanced experience. Classified as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', this switch offers a different but equally enticing typing experience. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Light Cloud V2, it is clear that they both have their own unique characteristics that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more resonant sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 features nylon housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer differences in sound, they each have their own appeal depending on the user's preference.
When it comes to aesthetics, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) stands out with its polycarbonate top housing that is especially useful for users looking to incorporate RGB lighting. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for the lighting effects to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visibility for RGB lighting, but it still maintains a classic and durable design that appeals to many users. Additionally, the combination of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches provides a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Light Cloud V2 may have different housing materials, they both offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate housing, ideal for users seeking a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who prefer a more rounded and dulled sound profile. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches deliver quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that both switches have similar weight requirements. The Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, providing a balance between lightness for extended typing sessions and a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, whether a user prefers a slightly lighter actuation force like the Light Cloud V2 or a slightly heavier bottom out force like the Aqua King (V3) will depend on their personal preference for typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aqua King offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which can be appealing for those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast-paced gameplay. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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 it comes to sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) switch is described as having a subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch is known for its muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing sound compared to regular switches. Both switches aim to minimize noise, with the Aqua King being more subdued and the Light Cloud V2 being more neutral. The ultimate sound you achieve will also depend on other factors such as your keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) switch is lauded for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience, giving a smooth and effortless feel reminiscent of gliding on ice. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, offering a gentle and light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. While the Aqua King focuses on providing a luxurious and smooth feel, the Light Cloud V2 prioritizes a gentle and easy typing experience suitable for various users.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aqua King excels in providing a frictionless and polished typing feel, while the Light Cloud V2 stands out for its easy-to-press and feathery characteristics. Depending on whether you prefer a luxurious glide or a gentle touch, you can achieve satisfying typing experiences with either switch. Ultimately, your choice between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a frictionless and creamy typing experience with a slightly subdued sound, the Aqua King (V3) may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a mild and easy-to-press switch with a muted sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making your decision.
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