Gateron CJ vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the TTC Light Cloud V2 mechanical keyboard switches, we see two unique linear switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The CJ is praised for its higher-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel, giving it a 'Chirpy' and 'Thocky' sensation. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 is known for its refined and silent typing experience, with a 'Muted' and 'Feathery' touch. While the CJ provides a more distinct sound and feel, the Light Cloud V2 offers a delicate and nuanced 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the TTC Light Cloud V2, the CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for the top housing, which is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 opts for a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. While the CJ's top housing creates a clacky sound, the Light Cloud V2's nylon housing offers a rounder and duller sound due to its softer plastic composition. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a unique sound and typing experience for users.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the CJ features a POM bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2's nylon bottom housing also enhances the switch's sound by absorbing more sound and creating a fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. Both housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the POM housing offering a unique, pleasing sound while nylon creates a softer, more absorbing sound profile.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches like the Gateron CJ and TTC Light Cloud V2 can greatly impact the typing experience. While the CJ uses a combination of INK blend and POM for its top and bottom housings, respectively, the Light Cloud V2 opts for nylon for both components. These differences result in varying sound profiles, with the CJ offering a clacky and muted sound, and the Light Cloud V2 providing a fuller and deeper sound. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by utilizing their respective housing materials to enhance sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Light Cloud V2's 45 grams, making the Light Cloud V2 the lighter of the two. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams while the Light Cloud V2 needs 58 grams, making them quite similar in this aspect. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better option, allowing for a smoother and easier keystroke. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gateron CJ. Both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback for a variety of users. In terms of weight, the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CJ. The CJ with its 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, while the Light Cloud V2 with its 3.5 mm travel distance is geared towards those looking for a faster and more responsive typing experience. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the CJ providing a deeper keypress feel and the Light Cloud V2 offering quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and distinctive chirpy sound with higher-pitched clacks, setting it apart from other linear switches. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch provides a muted and quieter typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subtle sound profile. Both switches fall under a neutral sound category, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. Depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, users can achieve different sound results, with the CJ offering a more pronounced and distinct sound compared to the lighter and softer sound of the Light Cloud V2.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CJ and TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches offer a mild and gentle typing experience, making them approachable for most users. However, the Light Cloud V2 is described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the CJ switch does not have specific descriptors related to the feel, suggesting a more standard linear switch feel. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, with the Light Cloud V2 standing out for its light touch and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a chirpy and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Light Cloud V2 offers a muted and quieter typing experience. Both switches have a mild and gentle feel, with the Light Cloud V2 being easier to press and feathery in touch. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, users can choose between the distinctive sound of the CJ or the light and effortless feel of the Light Cloud V2 for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CJ linear switch or the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, you should keep in mind their unique characteristics. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and enjoy a chirpy, neutral, or low-pitched sound profile with a mild typing experience, the Gateron CJ may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a muted, neutral, or gentle sound profile with an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, the TTC Light Cloud V2 could be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences for a more enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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