Durock Ice King Linear vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Light Cloud V2 each offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Ice King Linear is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, achieved through a full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, resulting in a smooth and frictionless feel that many typists seek. Its characteristics, described as creamy and polished, make it an appealing option for those looking for a subdued tactile experience. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 shines as one of the preferred silent switches, providing a refined typing feel that combines a mild, muted feedback with an easy-to-press nature. This makes the Light Cloud V2 particularly appealing for users who value a delicate and nuanced experience while typing, perfect for quiet environments or late-night use. Both switches have their distinct strengths, catering to different styles and preferences, offering a choice between a luxurious typing experience and a subtle, noise-conscious option. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
When analyzing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Light Cloud V2, we find that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, a choice that brings a consistent auditory experience across both models. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is characteristic of both switches. The softness of the nylon contributes significantly to the overall sound by absorbing some impact noise, making the typing experience less sharp and more rounded. Therefore, users can expect similar auditory characteristics from both the Ice King Linear and the Light Cloud V2, with their construction from nylon enhancing the overall sound quality.
Despite the same nylon composition in both models, the nuances of the switches lie in their specific designs and construction aspects that can affect the overall typing experience. Both switches will share the same general sound profile due to their nylon top and bottom housings, but variations in design, such as the stem shape or spring characteristics, could influence feel and performance during typing. While both models deliver a similar sound signature on bottoming out, users may notice slight differences in tactile feedback or responsiveness, stemming from these design nuances rather than the materials used.
Ultimately, the choice of nylon in the housing of both the Ice King Linear and the Light Cloud V2 ensures that users will enjoy a muted, softer sound when typing, giving both switches an appealing quality for a quieter workspace. If the top and bottom housings were to differ in material or design, the sound and feel of the key press could lead to a varied experience. However, since both switches are crafted from the same nylon material, the sound quality remains consistent, ensuring that users will experience a similarly pleasant auditory profile whether they choose the Durock Ice King Linear or the TTC Light Cloud V2.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear switch to the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Light Cloud V2 is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Light Cloud V2 switch requires less force to actuate, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ice King, being the heavier switch, provides a more substantial push feel that some may find more satisfying for tactile feedback. Thus, while both switches fall within a medium range, the Ice King Linear offers a firmer experience while the Light Cloud V2 facilitates a lighter touch. Overall, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding weight and feel in typing or gaming contexts.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, indicating that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of key responsiveness. With this equal travel distance, users can expect a consistent feel when pressing down on each key, allowing for a uniform tactile response across different keys. This similarity means that whether using the Durock Ice King or the TTC Light Cloud V2, typists can anticipate a comparable travel distance, making either switch an excellent choice for those seeking a linear switch with a balanced actuation point.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 comparing the sound of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2, there's a distinct difference in their auditory characteristics. The Ice King Linear produces a subdued sound, offering a dampened experience that doesn't reach the extremes of silence, but rather strikes a balance that minimizes distraction. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 features a muted sound profile that further reduces noise, yielding a quieter typing experience overall. Additionally, the Light Cloud encompasses a neutral quality, making it versatile and suitable for a broad range of environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. Both switches can deliver a sound signature that is less intrusive, especially when paired with the right board and keycaps.
As for feel, the Ice King Linear switch excels with a sensational typing experience described as silky and frictionless. The factory lubing contributes to a fluid motion, where fingers glide effortlessly between keys, enhancing the overall joy of typing. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 presents a milder experience characterized by easy-to-press and feathery qualities. This lightweight nature makes it incredibly comfortable, allowing for prolonged use without the typical fatigue associated with heavier switches. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a pleasant tactile feedback, though the Ice King leans towards a more luxurious smoothness, while the Light Cloud focuses on lightness and accessibility.
In summary, while both the Durock Ice King Linear and TTC Light Cloud V2 switches have their unique sound and feel qualities, each can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit through different approaches. The Ice King Linear leans towards a creamy, polished sensation with a subtly muted sound, making it ideal for those who appreciate a rich typing feel. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 favors a more gentle, easy-to-press disposition with a primarily muted auditory profile, appealing to users seeking a quieter, lighter switch. Choosing between these two options ultimately depends on whether you prioritize smoothness or a delicate typing experience, as both will ensure enjoyable results in their respective areas.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a silky and creamy typing experience, with a switch that feels exceptionally smooth and polished, then the Durock Ice King is likely your best option. Its slightly higher bottom-out force provides a solid feedback that some typists appreciate, especially during intense typing sessions. However, if you favor a more delicate and muted typing experience, where silence and subtlety are key, the TTC Light Cloud V2 may be the way to go. With its lower actuation force and feathery feel, this switch is easier to press, making it ideal for long hours of use, whether for writing, gaming, or casual browsing. Both switches have their distinct strengths, so consider what aspects matter most to you—be it sound, feel, or typing fatigue—as you make your decision.
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