TTC Flaming Pink vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Light Cloud V2 each offer unique benefits tailored to different preferences. The Flaming Pink switches are renowned for their smooth, responsive action and a satisfying bottom-out sound, which strikes a balance between being clacky and silky, making them ideal for both gaming and everyday typing. Their bright yet balanced sound profile enhances the overall typing experience without being overly intrusive. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 caters to those who prioritize a silent, refined typing experience. With its lightweight design and a feel categorized as mild, neutral, and feathery, this switch is perfect for users seeking a delicate touch in their keystrokes. While both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, they cater to distinct use cases; whether you prefer a more expressive typing feel or a quieter, subtler interaction, there is a choice for you. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
POM
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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Light Cloud V2, the distinction in the top housing significantly influences the overall sound profile of each switch. The Flaming Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer nature. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the key is released. The translucency of polycarbonate also amplifies the effect of RGB lighting, making it an excellent choice for users who value aesthetics alongside sound performance. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 features a nylon top housing, a material revered for its softer texture. This results in a deeper, fuller sound, as nylon absorbs more vibrations than polycarbonate, leading to a rounder sound profile overall.
Both switches share a common quality in their bottom housings, which are made from nylon. This similarity yields a similar auditory experience when the switches are bottomed out. The nylon material in both cases produces a deeper, more muted sound compared to stiffer plastics. This unified bottom housing creates a consistent feel and sound when pressing down on either switch, ensuring that users experience a similar tactile click and thud when engaged. This uniformity highlights how the nylon bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, maintaining a continuity in performance regardless of the differing top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the housing materials in both the TTC Flaming Pink and the Light Cloud V2 reflect the nuances of sound they produce. For the Flaming Pink, the polycarbonate top introduces a crisper sound profile that enhances the aesthetic aspects of RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom ensures a fuller sound at the bottom-out. Conversely, the Light Cloud V2's nylon top offers a smoother and rounder release sound, coupled with the same supportive nylon bottom for consistent sandy tactile feedback. As a result, users may find that although the switches diverge in specific auditory characteristics due to their top housing, the overall performance remains comparable due to the same nylon bottom, providing a balanced feel in both options.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Flaming Pink has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While both switches provide a distinct feel, the Flaming Pink is overall the lighter option, promoting less finger fatigue, whereas the Light Cloud V2, being heavier, offers a firmer resistance that may appeal to users seeking more tactile feedback. Therefore, the selection between these two switches ultimately depends on the user’s preference for a lighter versus a heavier keystroke experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, we find that the Flaming Pink features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users of the Flaming Pink switch will experience a bit more depth in their key presses, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feel. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 offers a marginally quicker response, appealing to gamers or individuals who prioritize rapid key actuation. Overall, for those who favor a faster response time, the Light Cloud V2 would be the suitable choice, whereas the Flaming Pink would cater to those who prefer a more pronounced travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 TTC Flaming Pink switch offers a distinctly clacky profile, characterized by its sharp and snappy auditory feedback. This results in a crisp and bright sound that adds a satisfying layer to each keystroke, making it particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate audible feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 presents a neutral sound signature that is more subdued. While it features a moderate actuation force with a balanced auditory experience, its quieter nature makes it more suitable for environments where minimizing noise is preferred. The choice between these switches will largely depend on the user’s sound preference, with the Flaming Pink appealing to those who enjoy a more vibrant keystroke while the Light Cloud V2 addresses the needs of those seeking quieter operation.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Pink is noted for its silky smooth typing experience, providing a sensation that minimizes resistance during key presses and releases. This smoothness enhances responsiveness, ultimately making typing both comfortable and engaging. On the other end of the spectrum, the Light Cloud V2 presents a mild and easy-to-press feel, characterized by lighter resistance and a more gentle typing experience. It combines this with a feathery touch, making the key presses feel effortless and reducing finger strain during extended usage. The smooth yet meticulous action of the Flaming Pink differentiates it from the softer, user-friendly nature of the Light Cloud V2, giving users a clear choice based on their tactile preferences.
In summary, the TTC Flaming Pink and TTC Light Cloud V2 switches each bring unique qualities to the table. The Flaming Pink excels with its clacky sound and silky feel, perfect for gamers and typists who desire auditory and tactile stimulation. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 is designed for a quieter, lighter touch typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize silence and ease of use. Ultimately, preferences for sound and feel will guide users in choosing between them, with each switch delivering satisfying and distinct typing experiences based on individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, the decision between TTC Flaming Pink and TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches largely hinges on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth, responsive typing experience with a bit of auditory satisfy—perfectly suited for a dynamic gaming environment or lively typing sessions—the TTC Flaming Pink, with its lighter 50-gram bottom-out force and clacky sound profile, would be your go-to choice. This switch caters wonderfully to those who enjoy an engaging and slightly expressive sound with a silky feel that enhances both gaming and everyday typing. On the other hand, if your focus leans more towards a quiet, refined typing experience, particularly in settings where noise might be an issue—like shared workspaces or libraries—the TTC Light Cloud V2 is an ideal pick. Its medium 58-gram bottom-out force combined with a neutral sound profile offers a comfortable and less intrusive experience, making it excellent for long typing sessions without the fear of disturbing others. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean towards an expressive, engaging interaction with your keyboard or a more subdued, focused typing experience.
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