Gateron CM vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the TTC Light Cloud V2, there are distinct differences to note. The Gateron CM is renowned for its full nylon housing that provides a rich and deep sound signature, along with a smooth typing experience due to impeccable factory lubrication. With lengthened, dual-staged springs, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is celebrated for its silent operation and lightweight feel, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience. While the CM switches are described as 'buttery,' 'bassy,' and 'thocky,' the Light Cloud V2 is characterized as 'mild,' 'muted,' and 'feathery.' 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
POM
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the TTC Light Cloud V2 are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. This means that both switches offer similar sound characteristics due to their shared nylon top and bottom housings.
However, despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing material, they may differ in terms of the specific design and manufacturing processes used for their housings. This could result in subtle variations in sound and feel between the Gateron CM and the TTC Light Cloud V2, even though they share the same housing material. These differences in design and manufacturing could impact the overall typing experience for users, with each switch having its own unique qualities that set it apart from the other.
In considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note that the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This means that the nylon bottom housing of both the Gateron CM and the TTC Light Cloud V2 will play a significant role in the typing experience by contributing to the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon top housing will impact the sound when keys are released. These nuances in housing design can ultimately influence the overall typing feel and sound of the switches, despite their shared nylon material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Light Cloud V2 is the lighter option. The CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, putting it in the medium category. The actuation force is the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may opt for the Light Cloud V2, while users looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the CM switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, slightly longer than the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times, especially gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may provide a slightly different typing experience for users. Those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress may lean towards the Gateron CM switch, while those seeking a slightly shorter travel distance may opt for the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a compact and responsive typing experience suitable for various preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 CM linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as muted and neutral, providing a softer and quieter sound compared to the CM. While the CM switch delivers a more profound and bass-heavy tone, the Light Cloud V2 offers a more subtle and moderate sound profile, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the CM focusing on depth and richness, while the Light Cloud V2 opts for a more understated approach.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is praised for its buttery, polished, and creamy typing sensation, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The switch provides a seamless and effortless typing feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to its factory lube job and materials used. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, providing a gentle and low-impact typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 switch offers a comfortable and responsive typing feel, with light actuation force reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the CM emphasizing a silky and frictionless typing experience, while the Light Cloud V2 focuses on approachability and comfort.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch delivers a deeper and richer sound signature with a buttery and polished typing feel, ideal for those seeking a luxurious and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 switch provides a more muted and gentle sound profile with a mild and easy-to-press typing sensation, catering to users who prefer a quieter and comfortable typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron CM or the TTC Light Cloud V2, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
Therefore, in choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who enjoys a bouncy and buttery typing experience with a rich, bassy sound profile, the Gateron CM may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate and feathery typing feel with muted, neutral sound characteristics, the TTC Light Cloud V2 could be the better option. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and key feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your individual typing needs.
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