KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Light Cloud V2 offer distinct experiences. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response that strikes a balance between being substantial yet unobtrusive, providing a crisp actuation without feeling overwhelming. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 is known for its silent operation and refined typing feel, offering a delicate and nuanced experience for those seeking a lightweight switch. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Light Cloud V2 falls under categories like 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Feathery', making it a unique choice for those who prioritize a silent and gentle 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and TTC Light Cloud V2 both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than stiffer plastics. However, the top housing materials of these switches differ, with the Ash Gray using polycarbonate and the Light Cloud V2 using nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 produces a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a different typing experience.
Even though the bottom housing material of both the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Light Cloud V2 is nylon, there may still be subtle differences in the sound and feel of typing on these switches. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality is likely to be more pronounced in the typing experience of both switches. However, the top housing of the KTT Ash Gray being polycarbonate can lead to a more resonant and clear sound when typing compared to the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing. Overall, while both switch models offer a similar deep and full sound due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the top housing materials may result in slightly different typing experiences.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Light Cloud V2 switches emphasizes the importance of understanding how each material contributes to the overall sound profile. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing's nylon material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material's characteristics will be more noticeable when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate of the Ash Gray providing a crisper sound profile compared to the duller sound produced by the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing. These differences in housing materials showcase how subtle variations can influence the overall typing experience on mechanical switches.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In comparison, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium category. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Ash Gray, while users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Light Cloud V2. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Ash Gray providing a slightly lighter feel compared to the Light Cloud V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, whether you choose the KTT Ash Gray or the TTC Light Cloud V2, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and linear feel of the switch. Since both switches have an equal travel distance, there is no difference in the amount of distance traveled between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as having a muted sound, providing a quieter typing experience for those who prefer a more subtle auditory feedback. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement, ensuring a balanced sound output that won't be overly disruptive. However, the choice of keyboard and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, both the Ash Gray and Light Cloud V2 switches offer a gentle typing experience. The Ash Gray switch is noted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for key activation, which reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Similarly, the Light Cloud V2 switch is described as mild, providing a comfortable and approachable typing feel that caters to a wide range of users. The feathery sensation of the Light Cloud V2 switch further enhances its ergonomic design by reducing strain on the fingers, making it ideal for extended use in activities like gaming, schoolwork, or professional typing tasks.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Ash Gray switch provides a tactile yet subtle feedback with a neutral sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 switch excels in offering a muted sound experience with a gentle and feathery feel. Depending on personal preference and intended usage, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience with enhanced comfort and performance. Whether you opt for the Ash Gray or Light Cloud V2, you can expect a high level of quality and satisfaction in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and needs. If you value a tactile response that is light yet crisp, with a moderate actuation force and a balanced sound profile, the Ash Gray might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a refined and silent typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force, the Light Cloud V2 could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer easy-to-press qualities, making typing effortless and comfortable, but the Ash Gray leans more towards a tactile feedback experience while the Light Cloud V2 focuses on a nuanced and muted typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a silent typing experience, along with your preference for actuation force and sound profile.
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