Kailh Box Navy vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Navy and TTC Light Cloud V2 are two popular options that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound, the Box Navy switches with their vintage buckling keyboard feel might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and silent typing experience, the Light Cloud V2's lightweight and refined nature could be more appealing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes and needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy and the TTC Light Cloud V2 both feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Box Navy utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is stiffer than nylon, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The Light Cloud V2, however, also uses a nylon top housing, offering a similar sound experience to the nylon bottom housing but with slight differences in sound profile due to the placement of the housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing allows for a translucent appearance, making it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. The Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing, while not translucent, still maintains a classic look commonly associated with switch housings. Both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Box Navy emphasizing a crisper sound profile while the Light Cloud V2 focuses on a deeper and fuller sound. Despite the housing material differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their unique sound profiles and tactile feedback.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the TTC Light Cloud V2, it's evident that the sound profile and typing experience may vary due to the properties of nylon and polycarbonate. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing a key. While the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper sound profile, the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing provides a deeper sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound characteristics and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch provide different typing experiences. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, offering a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Light Cloud V2, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Box Navy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for fast typing or gaming. Gamers may lean towards the Box Navy for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth and feedback with each press. On the other hand, users looking for a quicker response time may prefer the Light Cloud V2 with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired level of feedback.
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 Box Navy comes in at $5.50 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 Box Navy switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. The TTC Light Cloud V2, on the other hand, provides a more muted and neutral sound, making it a great choice for those looking for quiet and unobtrusive typing. Both switches will provide satisfying sound feedback, but the Box Navy will give a more intense and vintage clicky sound, while the Light Cloud V2 will offer a more subtle and modern typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback. This means that each keypress will be forceful and distinct, providing a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch offers a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience. This will result in a gentler and more effortless keystroke, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Box Navy switch is best suited for those who enjoy a firm and impactful typing feel, while the Light Cloud V2 is perfect for those who prefer a light and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy provides a loud and tactile typing experience reminiscent of vintage keyboards, while the Light Cloud V2 offers a quiet and smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, you can choose the switch that best suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches will provide a satisfying and reliable typing experience, but it all comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, your choice should be based on your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a distinctive clicky sound and strong tactile feedback, the Box Navy switches are perfect for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more muted sound and gentle typing feel, the Light Cloud V2 switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a heavier, more pronounced typing experience or a lighter, quieter one. Choose wisely based on your personal typing preferences.
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