HMX Gravel vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the nuances of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Gravel and TTC Light Cloud V2 emerge as two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking linear switches that cater to different preferences. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, characterized by a medium-light actuation force that leans towards a lighter touch, resulting in a responsive and effortless typing experience. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who prioritize speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 distinguishes itself as one of the leading silent switches in the market, offering a supremely refined typing experience that is both muted and mild. Its lightweight design enhances the delicacy and nuances of each press, appealing to users who value a soft and quiet typing environment. While both switches provide a linear feel that minimizes tactile feedback, their distinct traits cater to varied user preferences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and the TTC Light Cloud V2 utilize different materials for their top housings, which results in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The HMX Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, ideal for users who prefer a crisper auditory feedback that pairs well with RGB lighting. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 uses a nylon top housing, which is significantly softer and absorbs more sound. This characteristic produces a deeper and fuller sound profile that results in a duller auditory response. Consequently, while both switches may offer enjoyable experiences, their sound profiles diverge significantly due to the contrasting properties of polycarbonate and nylon as housing materials.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, it's noteworthy that the HMX Gravel and the TTC Light Cloud V2 feature nylon material for this component. In both cases, nylon’s softer nature effectively dampens sound, generating that deeper and rounder sound profile that many users appreciate. Thus, while the top housings of the two switches differ, the nylon composition of the bottom housing leads to a consistent depth in sound across both models. This dual utilization of nylon ensures that when users bottom out the key presses, they experience similar auditory characteristics, emphasizing the richness and fullness in sound that nylon is celebrated for.
Overall, the contrasting materials used in the top housings of the HMX Gravel and TTC Light Cloud V2 provide users with unique tactile and auditory experiences, while their identical nylon bottom housings create a common thread that evokes a deeply satisfying acoustic response. Such a configuration means that the HMX Gravel will likely resonate more crisply during key release, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 will present a rounder sound. However, both can yield similarly pleasurable results when it comes to the typing experience, thanks to the shared nylon bottom housing. This dual-material approach allows users to select their preferred sound profile while still enjoying a cohesive auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, there are similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which implies that users will experience a similar ease of pressure required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Gravel at 50 grams and the Light Cloud V2 at 58 grams. This means that the Gravel switch provides a lighter overall feel, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions, while the Light Cloud V2 offers a heavier pushback at the bottom, catering to users who prefer a more substantial key press. Consequently, for those who value a lightweight switch for long durations, the HMX Gravel is the better choice, whereas the TTC Light Cloud V2 appeals to those seeking a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch exhibit identical travel distances of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience the same amount of travel for both switches, resulting in comparable performance and feel during typing or gaming. Since both switches share the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key engagement and responsiveness, making either option suitable for those seeking a consistent and familiar tactile experience in their keyboard setup.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 HMX Gravel linear switch doesn't have a specified character, so its auditory profile remains somewhat open to interpretation. However, it is likely to share similarities with the TTC Light Cloud V2, which is notably muted and neutral. The Light Cloud V2 is designed to be quieter than typical switches, minimizing the distinct clicky or clacky sounds commonly associated with mechanical keyboards, making it suitable for quiet environments whether at home or in the office. The Gravel might produce a similarly subdued sound profile, leaning towards a quieter experience but the specifics would depend on the keyboard build and the choice of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gravel linear switch excels with its smoothness and medium-light actuation force, ensuring that each key press is responsive and effortless. While the specifics of the Gravel’s feel aren't provided, the Light Cloud V2 is marked by its gentle, mild characteristics, offering a delicate, feather-light typing experience. The activation force required for pressing the Light Cloud V2 feels light, thus reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. If the Gravels are similarly smooth and light, users should expect a comparable typing sensation, allowing for an enjoyable experience that's both comfortable and engaging, even during extended use.
In conclusion, while the HMX Gravel linear switch lacks specific descriptors for both sound and feel, it is reasonable to expect that enthusiasts could achieve a similar typing experience to the TTC Light Cloud V2. The Gravel's potential smoothness paired with its lighter actuation might offer a comparable ease of use, while both switches are designed to facilitate a quieter and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the HMX Gravel could serve as an excellent alternative for those seeking a smooth, lightweight experience, paralleling the appealing qualities of the Light Cloud V2.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smoother and more refined typing experience with a lighter touch, the HMX Gravel switch, with its 50 grams of bottom-out force, can offer you a responsive, effortless typing feel that is ideal for those who type frequently or engage in extended gaming sessions. Its lightweight nature minimizes finger fatigue, making it a fantastic option for both casual and enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more substantial feel under your fingers without sacrificing silence, the TTC Light Cloud V2, with its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, strikes a balance between a gentle typing sensation and a muted sound profile. This switch is particularly appealing if you're in an environment where noise control is a priority, as its mild feel allows for comfortable, long typing sessions while also helping to keep background noise to a minimum. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages, and your choice should reflect the typing experience you value most.
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