Everglide Crystal Violet vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch to the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, there are key differences to consider. The Crystal Violet provides a relaxed and tactile typing experience with a light operating force of 45g, offering a gentle and comfortable feel with a mellow, lower-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience. While the Crystal Violet is described as 'Creamy' and 'Stepped', the Light Cloud V2 is labeled as 'Muted' and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the TTC Light Cloud V2, we see that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Crystal Violet features ABS for both top and bottom housing, while the Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon for both components. The ABS top housing of the Crystal Violet offers a relatively low-pitched sound profile, similar to the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to the ABS material.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Crystal Violet and the Light Cloud V2 continue to showcase their differences. The Crystal Violet's ABS bottom housing contributes to a low-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2 enhances the deeper and fuller sound experience. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch is more pronounced, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience. The ABS and nylon materials offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Overall, while the Everglide Crystal Violet and the TTC Light Cloud V2 employ different housing materials for both top and bottom components, they both aim to provide unique typing experiences for users. The choice between ABS and nylon housing will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and tactile feedback. Both switches showcase the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, with ABS offering a lower-pitched sound profile and nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound. By understanding the qualities that each housing material brings to the table, users can make informed decisions on which switch best suits their preferences.
Weight
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal Violet requires 55 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 requires 58 grams, making the Light Cloud V2 slightly heavier in this aspect. The Crystal Violet provides a medium-light feel overall, while the Light Cloud V2 is more in the medium range. Weight is a significant factor to consider when choosing a switch, as preferences vary among users. Some may prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, the Crystal Violet has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the Crystal Violet may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is best suited for those seeking a low-pitched and mellow sound profile, thanks to the rare use of ABS material in the switch housing. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a more muted and quiet typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer sound. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, which means they are suitable for various settings and user preferences. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, you can expect similar results in sound quality from both switches.
Moving on to the feel, the Crystal Violet switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. It also offers a mild and stepped tactile feel, giving users a gentle typing experience with distinct feedback. In comparison, the Light Cloud V2 switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, it is described as feathery, meaning it requires minimal exertion from your fingers, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches offer a gentle typing experience, the Crystal Violet switch provides a more stepped tactile feel compared to the Light Cloud V2's linear feel.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Violet switch provides a low-pitched and creamy typing experience with stepped tactile feedback, while the Light Cloud V2 switch offers a muted and easy-to-press typing experience with a linear feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can enhance your typing experience with their distinctive characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a gentle and comfortable typing experience with a light operating force, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The creamy and stepped tactile feel of these switches, combined with their low-pitched sound profile, creates a relaxed and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a supremely refined and silent typing feel with a slightly higher bottom out force, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch would be the perfect fit. The easy-to-press and feathery nature of these switches, coupled with their muted sound profile, provides a delicate and nuanced typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a light tactile feel or a refined linear feel for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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