Durock Ice King Tactile vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Light Cloud V2 are two popular options with distinctly different characteristics. The Ice King Tactile is renowned for its seamless blend of smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, creating a uniquely satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 is favored for its silent operation and lightweight feel, catering to those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing sensation. While the Ice King Tactile offers a symphony of touch with its silky and stepped 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
58g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Light Cloud V2, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel. The qualities of nylon as a switch housing material, such as its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties, will be present in both switches.
However, despite both switches using the same housing material, there may be slight differences in the typing experience between the two. The design and construction of the housing, as well as any additional components within the switches, could impact the overall feel and sound produced. It is possible that the Ice King Tactile and Light Cloud V2 may exhibit subtle variations in sound and tactility, even though they share the same housing material.
Ultimately, while the housing materials of the Ice King Tactile and Light Cloud V2 are the same, it is important to consider other factors such as the spring weight, stem design, and overall construction of the switches when comparing them. These factors can greatly influence the typing experience and may result in differences between the two switches, despite them both utilizing nylon housing. Overall, both switches are likely to offer a similar sound profile and typing feel, but nuances in design and construction may lead to slight variations in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile is the heavier option. The Ice King Tactile has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium category. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Light Cloud V2 make it a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, while the heavier forces of the Ice King Tactile are ideal for individuals who seek a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is the same at 3.5 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent amount of travel distance when pressing down on a key, resulting in similar tactile feedback and typing experience for users. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, making them equally suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific travel distance in their switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile 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 Tactile 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch offers a muted sound, producing a softer and quieter noise compared to regular switches. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a more enjoyable and quieter typing experience. Depending on your choice of board and keycaps, you can achieve similar results with either switch in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 switch, in contrast, is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, providing a gentle typing experience with light actuation force. While the Ice King Tactile switch focuses on smoothness and a pronounced bump, the Light Cloud V2 switch prioritizes a delicate and nuanced typing feel. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feedback and resistance.
Considering the information provided, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, delivering a uniquely satisfying tactile experience for those seeking a blend of smoothness and tactility. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch stands out as a silent switch option with a refined and delicate typing feel, suitable for those looking for a more lightweight and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, allowing users to customize their mechanical keyboard setup based on their unique preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a pronounced tactile bump and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a silky-smooth feel with a symphony of touch that elevates tactile typing to an art form. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a quieter sound profile and easy-to-press keys, the Light Cloud V2 would be more suitable for your preferences. This switch provides a refined and gentle typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy feel or a lightweight and quiet typing experience. Consider these factors when choosing between the Ice King Tactile and the Light Cloud V2 switches.
Mentioned in this article
