Bsun Cliff vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Bsun Cliff, known for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, provides a satisfying feedback that many typists appreciate, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy a more engaged typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is a standout linear switch that prioritizes a smooth and silent typing experience, offering a refined feel that caters to users looking for delicacy and nuance in key presses. With its lightweight design, the Light Cloud V2 proves to be an appealing choice for those who prefer effortless keystrokes without any distracting noise. While both switches have their distinct advantages, they cater to different typing preferences and environments. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Light Cloud V2, a distinct contrast can be observed in their top housing compositions. The Bsun Cliff utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and more pristine sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the resonance of sound, which is particularly beneficial when RGB lighting is employed, as the material’s translucency allows for vibrant light diffusion. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 employs a nylon top housing, characterized by a softer texture that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The absorption qualities of nylon create a rounder sound, which tends to mute high frequencies, offering a more subdued acoustic experience.
While both switches feature nylon bottom housings that share similar attributes—offering a consistent deep and full sound due to the material’s sound-dampening qualities—their differing top housing materials set them apart markedly. The Bsun Cliff's polycarbonate top accentuates the higher-pitched frequencies during key release, while the Light Cloud V2's nylon top mellowens the overall sound, allowing for a more rounded auditory experience. The implications of these materials affect the user experience, especially in how the switches handle the acoustic and tactile feedback—the Cliff providing a sharper attack, and the Cloud V2 delivering a softer, more enveloping sound.
In a practical sense, the materials used in the housing can lead to unique results. The differences in sound characteristics make them suited for different user preferences: those who favor a more pronounced and vibrant tactile experience might gravitate towards the Cliff, while users seeking a warmer and more muted key response may prefer the Light Cloud V2. Despite their distinctions, if one desires a balanced sound experience that incorporates both traits, a combination of mods or switch combinations could be experimented with to achieve desired acoustics. Thus, while the full resonance profiles differ, enthusiasts can mix and match the housing materials in their setups, potentially achieving similar results in sound depth or clarity.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. This means that the Cliff switch is better suited for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for long hours of typing or gaming. Meanwhile, the heavier Light Cloud V2 may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing, providing a tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience. Overall, if you favor a lighter switch, the Bsun Cliff is the way to go, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 offers a firmer touch for those who prefer more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, the Cliff offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Light Cloud V2 provides a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Light Cloud V2 the shorter option by 0.1 mm. For users who favor quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may be more preferable, as it allows for faster activation. However, those who appreciate a more pronounced key press with a deeper feel may find the Bsun Cliff's 3.6 mm travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Cliff providing a bit more depth compared to the Light Cloud V2's quicker actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch has a crisp sound signature that produces a moderate noise upon actuation, making it more pronounced than quieter switches. This sound is characteristic of tactile switches, providing auditory feedback that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, designed to minimize the clack commonly found in many mechanical switches. This refined sound quality contributes to a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise is a concern.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch offers a medium tactility, providing a noticeable bump that signals the actuation point without being overly harsh. This creates a satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer some resistance while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 presents a much gentler experience with its mild feel and easy-to-press mechanism. The lightweight nature of this switch not only reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions but also allows for a more effortless typing experience. The combination of its feathery actuation makes it comfortable, especially for users who might struggle with heavier switches.
Overall, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch cater to different preferences—one favoring a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience, while the other prioritizes subtlety and ease of use. If you are looking for distinct feedback and sound, the Cliff may offer what you desire, whereas the Light Cloud V2 will appeal to those who prioritize a smooth, quiet operation with minimal exertion. Depending on your typing style and the environments in which you’ll be using the keyboard, either switch can provide an enjoyable typing experience, but it's essential to consider what qualities matter most to you in your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and enjoy a tactile bump combined with a crisp sound signature, the Cliff would be the right choice for you. Its medium tactility makes it particularly engaging for typists who enjoy feedback without being overly pronounced. This switch is also well-suited for quieter environments where you still want to maintain a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more subdued typing experience with a focus on smoothness and reduced noise, the TTC Light Cloud V2 would be more appealing. With a medium actuation force that still feels light, it offers a gentle, refined feel that's perfect for prolonged typing sessions, whether you're at work or gaming. Its muted sound profile and mild feedback ensure that you remain comfortable without disturbing those around you. Ultimately, consider your typing style and environment to choose between these two; one offers tactile satisfaction while the other provides a serene, smooth experience.
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