Kailh Box White vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White 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, the Kailh Box White and TTC Light Cloud V2 offer distinct experiences for users. The Box White is a popular choice for those who enjoy a clicky switch, providing maximum audio feedback with a unique "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 appeals to those seeking a silent switch with a refined typing feel, offering a lightweight and easy-to-press experience. While the Box White is best known for its resonant and high-pitched qualities, the Light Cloud V2 stands out for its mild, muted, and feathery attributes. Deciding between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Yes
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
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches both have distinct characteristics that influence the sound and feel of typing on these switches. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that enhances resonance. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box White is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, enhancing aesthetics.
When it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, both the Box White and the Light Cloud V2 feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound for a satisfying typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing are felt more prominently during the bottom-out sound and feel of pressing down on the switch, showcasing the impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Kailh Box White and TTC Light Cloud V2 switches have different top and bottom housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience, with each material contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Whether you prefer the sharper, clearer sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that showcases the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium weight category. The Box White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Light Cloud V2 boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Box White providing a slightly more substantial push feel compared to the Light Cloud V2. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Light Cloud V2 for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Box White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White 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 fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of these switches. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Box White to be more satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched experience, with a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. This switch provides a satisfying auditory feedback that some users find immersive and crisp. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as producing a muted and neutral sound, offering a quieter typing experience compared to the Box White. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a more subdued and understated sound profile while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is known for its polished finish, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience. This switch reduces friction and provides smooth key travel, enhancing overall typing comfort. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery. It offers a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The light actuation force of this switch ensures a comfortable and responsive typing feel for various uses.
Considering the subjective qualities of the sound and feel of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is apparent that these switches cater to different preferences and typing needs. The Box White switch excels in providing a loud, tactile, and crunchy typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 switch stands out for its quiet, smooth, and effortless typing feel, making it a preferred choice for users seeking a more subdued and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you desire maximum audio feedback with a crunchy sound profile and accented tactility, the Box White switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a silent typing experience with a more muted sound profile and a gentle typing feel, the Light Cloud V2 switch may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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