Huano Elf vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular linear options worth considering are the Huano Elf and the TTC Light Cloud V2. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and produces a deep sound signature, paired with a medium-light feel that contributes to a satisfying typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate robust auditory feedback while enjoying a balanced typing action. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is recognized for its whisper-quiet operation and lightweight design, offering a refined, delicate, and nuanced typing experience. It caters to users who prioritize a soft touch and a more muted sound, making it particularly suitable for quieter environments or long typing sessions. While both switches serve distinct preferences, ranging from sound and feedback to the overall typing feel, the choice comes down to individual typing styles and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POK
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
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the TTC Light Cloud V2, it’s important to note the stark differences in their top housings. The top housing of the Huano Elf is made from POK, a highly durable material known for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional strength. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK is slightly slicker than LY and provides a smooth typing experience. Additionally, its notably enhanced shock resistance and wear resistance surpass those of commonly used materials like POM and Nylon, making it ideal for producing a clacky sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon as its top housing material, which is characterized by its softer texture. This softness results in a deeper, fuller sound that absorbs sound vibrations more effectively than harder materials, leading to a different auditory experience while typing.
In the case of the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, leading to a similar auditory experience. The nylon used in the Huano Elf's bottom housing, just like in the Light Cloud V2, contributes to a rounder, duller sound profile when typing due to its softer composition. This shared characteristic means that, irrespective of the top housing material, the typing sound will carry a certain warmth and depth because of the nylon present in both designs. Both switches will exhibit a more muted bottom-out sound as a result of the sound absorption properties of the nylon material, showcasing how the materials converge in this aspect despite their differing top housings.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials for the top and bottom housings results in unique sound profiles and tactile feedback for each switch. The Huano Elf utilizes POK for a slick and durable upper experience, while the nylon bottom enhances the overall sound quality. Conversely, the Light Cloud V2 relies on nylon for both top and bottom housings, creating a consistent sonic environment that emphasizes depth and softness. Thus, while the Elf may provide greater durability and a distinct top-end sound profile due to its POK material, both switches can achieve similar results in terms of bottom-end sound quality due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of material choice in the design of keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Elf remains unknown. The Elf features an actuation force of 42 grams, making it lighter than the TTC Light Cloud V2, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This difference in actuation force suggests that the Huano Elf may be more suitable for individuals who prefer ease of typing and extended use, as its lighter feel can reduce fatigue over longer periods. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2's actuation force, being slightly heavier, would appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the Light Cloud V2 has a defined bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a firmer touch when the switch is fully pressed down, whereas the bottom out force for the Elf is not provided. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter touch, the Huano Elf linear switch would be the better choice, while those who prefer a heavier feel might lean towards the TTC Light Cloud V2.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, the Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Light Cloud V2 measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Elf the longer switch by a margin of 0.1 mm. For gamers or users who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may be more appealing, offering a snappier feel when pressed. Conversely, those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes might find the Huano Elf’s travel distance more comfortable, as it provides a more substantial tactile experience. Overall, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the slightly longer Elf may cater to users who appreciate a more pronounced key press, whereas the Light Cloud V2 could better suit those seeking quicker actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf switch delivers a deep sound signature that enhances the acoustics due to its POK top housing. This gives it a distinct character, producing a rich auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is designed as a silent switch, exhibiting a muted sound profile that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The combination of its muted and neutral characteristics makes it highly suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office setting where noise control is preferred. Therefore, the Elf offers a more pronounced auditory experience, while the Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a quieter operation.
Regarding feel, the Huano Elf switch features a medium-light tactile response, providing a balanced typing experience that many find pleasurable. Although specific details were not provided, the switch is generally known for delivering a satisfying sensation during keystrokes. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 emphasizes a lightweight and nuanced feel, marked by its easy-to-press design that requires minimal force to actuate. This results in an effortlessly comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and making it a great choice for extended typing sessions. While the Elf swings more toward a traditional typing experience with a medium feel, the Light Cloud V2 offers a delicately lighter touch that caters to users seeking gentle resistance and responsiveness in each keystroke.
In summary, both the Huano Elf and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches cater to distinctly different preferences in sound and feel. The Elf excels with its deep sound profile and medium-light actuation, providing a more traditional and auditory satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 prioritizes a quieter operation alongside an exceptionally light and comfortable touch, making it ideal for noiseless environments. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your preference for sound and tactile feedback; if you appreciate pronounced acoustics and a satisfying feel, the Elf is your match, whereas if you desire a muted experience with a feather-light touch, the Light Cloud V2 is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, consider what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a deep sound signature and a medium-light feel, the Huano Elf might be your best choice. It is especially suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience while typing, making it an excellent option for environments where sound is a non-issue or even desirable. In contrast, if you prefer a quieter and more refined typing experience, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is ideal. Its muted sound profile combined with the light actuation force provides a gentle typing feel that is particularly accommodating for long writing sessions, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing comfort. Ultimately, choose the Huano Elf for a richer auditory experience and a balance of tactile feedback, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 stands out for a tranquil, featherlight touch. Both switches cater to different preferences, so align your choice with how you intend to use your keyboard most effectively.
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