Akko Botany vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and TTC Light Cloud V2 offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Akko Botany is celebrated for its lively, clacky sound, enhancing the auditory feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate in their typing experience. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of character and auditory excitement while typing. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 excels as a silent switch, providing a refined and delicate typing feel that is especially suited for users who prefer a more subtle experience. Its lightweight design makes it an attractive option for those seeking a nuanced, easy-to-press key feel. While both switches cater to distinct desires—acoustic satisfaction versus refined discretion—understanding their unique characteristics is essential. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon Pro
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
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and TTC Light Cloud V2 both utilize nylon as their housing material, which signifies a shared foundation in terms of design philosophy and sound performance. Nylon is favored in the keyboard switch industry for its ability to produce a deeper and more resonant sound profile due to its relatively softer composition. The nylon used in both the Botany and Light Cloud V2 contributes to a sound that is rounder and less harsh than those produced by harder plastics, making both switches appealing options for users who prioritize auditory satisfaction while typing. The commonality in their material choice means that users can expect a similar acoustic experience from each switch model, characterized by a mellow typing sound.
Moreover, the bottom housings of both the Akko Botany and TTC Light Cloud V2 also employ nylon, reinforcing the advantages provided by this versatile plastic. The properties of nylon contribute significantly to the bottoming-out sound and tactile feedback experienced when pressing the keys. The use of the same material in both switches suggests that the feeling and auditory feedback during this action will be comparable across both models, allowing typists to enjoy consistent performance whether they are using one switch or the other. This is beneficial to individuals who may want to switch between different keyboard setups without sacrificing the typing experience.
Despite the shared use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings, the nuanced interaction between these components can offer varying sound profiles when keys are released. In a scenario where the top and bottom housings differ—though both of these switches maintain the same materials—the overall quality of sound felt during the bottoming out and the sound made upon releasing a key could still achieve similar results. The distinct impacts of the top and bottom housings in the overall typing experience encapsulate how even slight variances in switch design can lead to unique auditory and tactile profiles while maintaining the primary benefits offered by nylon as a switch housing material. Thus, while both switches share an essential similarity, they may still provide nuanced differences that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The Akko Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during extended sessions. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some may find preferable for tactile feedback. Consequently, those who prioritize a lighter switch for prolonged use may lean towards the Akko Botany, while users desiring a firmer typing sensation might favor the TTC Light Cloud V2. Overall, the Akko Botany is the lighter option, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch varies slightly, with the Botany measuring at 3.6 mm and the Light Cloud V2 at 3.5 mm. This means that the Botany switch has a longer travel distance by just 0.1 mm, allowing for a slightly more pronounced feel when pressing the key. Both switches fall within the realm of modern linear switches favored by gamers and typists who appreciate reduced travel for quicker response times; however, the Botany provides a bit more depth, which some users may prefer for tactile feedback. Ultimately, if you seek more responsiveness, the slightly shorter Light Cloud V2 could be an appealing choice, while those who enjoy a firmer press might gravitate towards the Botany's longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Botany has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Botany for $3.11.
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
The sound profile of the Akko Botany switch is characterized by a crisp and lively clack right from the start, making it ideal for users who enjoy an audible feedback while typing or gaming. This engaging auditory response lends itself well to a lively typing experience, which can be quite satisfying for those who appreciate a more pronounced sound. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is designed as a silent switch, providing a more neutral sound profile that is moderate in terms of actuation force. This makes it suitable for a wide array of environments, particularly for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, whether at home or in an office setting.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switch brings a dynamic typing experience that energizes your fingers as you engage with it, although no specific descriptor was provided to articulate its tactile sensations. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is well-regarded for its mild and easy-to-press characteristics that emphasize a gentle typing feel. It requires minimal force to activate, thus reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making it very approachable for users of varying typing styles. Furthermore, the feathery touch of the Light Cloud V2 enhances this comfortable experience, allowing for the effortless actuation that many seek in a linear switch.
In summary, while both the Akko Botany and TTC Light Cloud V2 switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they each provide unique benefits. The Botany offers a lively auditory experience, whereas the Light Cloud V2 excels in a quieter, more delicate interaction with the keyboard. For users looking for engaging sounds, the Botany is the clear choice. However, for those who prioritize a low-impact and comfortable typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 is the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will largely depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a switch that offers a lively and clacky sound with a light actuation force of 45 grams, the Akko Botany is an excellent choice. This switch is particularly well-suited for users who appreciate audible feedback while typing or gaming, and it's ideal for extended sessions where you want a light and energetic feel under your fingertips. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more subdued and refined typing experience, the TTC Light Cloud V2, with its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, is the better pick. This switch is known for its mild and easy-to-press nature, making it ideal for environments where quiet operation is a priority, such as in an office setting or during late-night work sessions. The Light Cloud V2's neutral sound profile and delicately responsive feel also cater well to those who prefer a more nuanced approach to typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches should reflect your specific needs, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or the ergonomic comfort of your typing experience.
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