Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Light Cloud V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches excel in providing a smooth typing experience. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and precise actuation, with a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between substantial feedback and ease of use. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 is known for its refined and silent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. Both switches offer unique features, such as the Black Lotus' reduced housing and stem wobble and the Light Cloud V2's lightweight nature. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Light Cloud V2, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, both the Black Lotus and the Light Cloud V2 will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to their bottom housings.
However, when it comes to the top housing materials, the Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend, which gives it a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 features a nylon top housing that also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Black Lotus may provide a more distinctive and luxurious typing experience with its modified PC and UPE blend top housing, the Light Cloud V2 offers a more traditional yet effective sound profile with its nylon top housing. This difference in top housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Light Cloud V2 will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of the typing experience desired. Both switches offer the benefits of nylon bottom housings which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the differing top housing materials provide unique characteristics to their typing feel. Whether one prefers the premium feel of the Black Lotus’s modified PC and UPE blend top housing or the classic sound profile of the Light Cloud V2’s nylon top housing, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking for high-quality materials in their switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Light Cloud V2's lighter 45 grams. Additionally, the Black Lotus has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 bottoms out at 58 grams. The Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 offers a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances but cater to slightly different preferences. The shorter travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, while the Black Lotus offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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 Durock Black Lotus switch is known for a neutral sound profile, meaning it offers a moderate level of noise suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch is described as producing a muted sound, making it a quieter option compared to the Black Lotus switch. Ultimately, the sound of both switches will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch is praised for its silky and buttery typing experience, offering smooth and effortless key presses. It also falls under the mild category, providing a gentle typing sensation that appeals to a wide range of users. In comparison, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch is described as mild as well, but with an emphasis on being easy-to-press and feathery, highlighting its light actuation force and comfortable typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a refined and enjoyable typing feel to users.
In conclusion, both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus excels in providing a smooth and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Light Cloud V2 stands out for its quiet and light actuation force typing feel. Depending on whether you prioritize feel or sound in your mechanical keyboard switches, you can trust that both switches will deliver satisfactory results based on their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, you should consider your preference in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a switch with a more pronounced, smooth typing experience, the Black Lotus may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more gentle, easy-to-press typing feel, the Light Cloud V2 could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you value a quieter sound profile, the Light Cloud V2's muted characteristics may be more suitable for you compared to the Black Lotus. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and requirements.
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