Kailh Berry vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Berry and the TTC Light Cloud V2 mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Berry switch offers a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture, producing a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 stands out for its refined and silent typing feel, making it a great choice for those seeking a delicate and nuanced typing experience. Categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', this switch is lightweight and provides a smooth 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the TTC Light Cloud V2, one noticeable difference is in the top housing. The Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in material affects the overall acoustics of the switches, with the Berry delivering a crisper sound and the Light Cloud V2 offering a more rounded sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Kailh Berry and the TTC Light Cloud V2 use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deep and full sound profile in both switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, the impact of this material on the overall sound profile is noteworthy, as it plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, while the Kailh Berry and TTC Light Cloud V2 share a similar material for the bottom housing, their choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Berry creates a sharp and clear sound, ideal for those seeking a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 produces a deeper and fuller sound, catering to individuals who prefer a more rounded acoustic profile. Depending on personal preference for sound characteristics, users can choose between these switches based on their top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Berry switch has a higher bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Light Cloud V2's 58 grams. The actuation force of the Berry switch is not specified, while the Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Light Cloud V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force than the Berry switch.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 may be the more suitable option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Berry switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel and force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular among users looking for faster response times, especially in gaming. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, as they will still provide a similar experience in terms of key press depth. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for either a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone that provides a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is muted and neutral, producing a softer and quieter sound that is suitable for most users in various environments. The choice between these two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference, with the Berry switch providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Light Cloud V2 offers a more subdued and quiet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, providing users with a noticeable friction when pressed that some may find appealing for tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and reduces fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a different feel, with the Berry switch providing a textured and somewhat scratchy typing experience, while the Light Cloud V2 offers a smooth, easy-to-press feel that is comfortable for most users.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Berry switch is best suited for those who enjoy a springy and chalk-like texture with a deeper, bass-heavy sound profile, while the Light Cloud V2 is ideal for users who prefer a refined, lightweight typing experience with a muted and neutral sound. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. If you are someone who values a textured typing experience with low-pitched and bassy sound, the Berry switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent, easy-to-press, and feathery typing feel, the Light Cloud V2 switch will be more suited to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a hefty and springy typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined and lightweight typing feel with a silent operation, the Light Cloud V2 switch would be the ideal choice. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Berry switch would be preferable, whereas if you prefer a muted and neutral sound, the Light Cloud V2 would be more suitable. In terms of feel, if you enjoy a textured typing experience, the Berry switch would be a good fit, while the Light Cloud V2 offers a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that align with your typing needs.
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