Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Light Cloud V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is renowned for its budget-friendly excellence, providing a high-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel when typing. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 stands out as a silent switch with a refined typing feel, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a polished and resonant feel, the Light Cloud V2 provides a muted and easy-to-press experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing is also noted for its translucency, making it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Light Cloud V2 use a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound between the two switches. However, the top housing materials differ between the two switches, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing emphasizing a clear, resonant sound, while the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing provides a deeper sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom of a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow results in a sharper sound when keys are released, while the softer nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper sound when keys are pressed. This difference in material composition allows for a distinct typing experience between the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Light Cloud V2. However, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the fuller sound profile attributed to the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the heavier option overall. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is slightly higher than the Light Cloud V2's 45 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is 67 grams, compared to the Light Cloud V2's 58 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, but the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a slightly stronger push for both actuation and bottom out. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Light Cloud V2 has a shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience, while the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 is shallower and provides a quicker response for gamers. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the shorter distance of the Light Cloud V2 catering to those seeking faster responses, while the longer distance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, minimizing noise and providing a moderate and versatile sound for various environments. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities catering to different user preferences.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch provides a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery feel, making it gentle on the fingers and comfortable for extended typing sessions. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow focuses on a luxurious and buttery feel, the Light Cloud V2 prioritizes ease of use and comfort, appealing to users looking for a softer typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch stands out for its high-pitched sound and polished, creamy feel, creating a bouncy and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a muted, neutral sound and a gentle, feathery feel, prioritizing comfort and ease of use. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Whether you decide to go with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Light Cloud V2, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch or the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile with a polished, creamy feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a muted, neutral sound profile, and a mild, easy-to-press, feathery feel, then the Light Cloud V2 may suit your typing style better. Consider your typing environment, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both, and select the switch that aligns best with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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