SP-Star Ayara vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Light Cloud V2, both of which are linear switches. The Ayara is renowned for its medium heftiness, providing a satisfying typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 is beloved for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter and more nuanced typing experience. While these general descriptions can help guide your decision, it's important to delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to determine which one best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Light Cloud V2 feature nylon top and bottom housings, which gives them both a similar deep and fuller sound profile when typing. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This consistent use of nylon in both switches ensures a cohesive sound experience for users seeking a specific typing sound.
Despite the shared nylon material in the housings of both switches, the difference in the design of the top and bottom housings can affect the overall typing experience. The Ayara and Light Cloud V2 may have similar sound profiles due to the nylon material, but the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel can vary between the two switches. Users may notice subtle differences in the sensation of pressing down on the keys based on the specific design of the housings in each switch.
While both switches utilize nylon for their housings, the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Light Cloud V2 may still offer distinct typing experiences based on other factors such as spring weight, stem design, and overall switch construction. The nylon material may contribute to a consistent sound profile, but individual preferences for typing feel, key travel, and actuation force may ultimately play a larger role in determining which switch is preferred by users. Ultimately, while the housing materials may be similar, the overall typing experience can vary based on the combination of factors unique to each switch design.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch both fall into the medium weight category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 sits slightly lighter at 58 grams. In terms of actuation force, the Ayara requires None grams, which may indicate a lighter touch compared to the Light Cloud V2, which needs 45 grams to actuate. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better option, allowing for extended typing and gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ayara may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with its slightly higher bottom out force. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable medium-weight option for different preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches, it is clear that the Ayara has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Light Cloud V2's 3.5 mm. The Ayara's 4 mm travel distance makes it slightly longer and may provide a more traditional typing experience, while the Light Cloud V2's 3.5 mm travel distance offers a shallower feel, which can appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a longer, more deliberate press or a quicker, more responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a more high-pitched and clacky sound profile, which can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy a crisp and sharp sound when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch provides a more muted and quiet typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking to minimize keyboard noise. Both switches fall under the neutral category in terms of sound profile, offering a moderate experience suitable for various settings.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press feel, with a gentle typing experience that is comfortable and approachable for most users. Additionally, the Light Cloud V2 switch is also described as feathery, making it exceptionally light to press and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is best suited for those looking for a medium heftiness and a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is recommended for those seeking a silent and refined typing feel with a lightweight touch. While both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide a neutral typing experience suitable for various preferences and environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize the clacky sound and polished feel of the Ayara or the muted sound and gentle feel of the Light Cloud V2.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star Ayara linear switch or the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences. If you enjoy a bolder typing experience with a medium bottom-out force and a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined and silent typing experience with a lower bottom-out force, the Light Cloud V2 switch would be ideal. Both switches offer unique qualities, so it is important to consider what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your decision. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for the most satisfying typing experience.
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