Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to note their unique characteristics. The Ink Black V2 is celebrated for its classic linear switch design, providing a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 is favored for its silent operation and refined typing feel, thanks to its lightweight construction. While the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched and bassy typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 provides a muted and easy-to-press feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 produces a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 elicits a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the bottom housings of the two switches also differ, with the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 providing a similar high-pitched sound profile, and the nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2 creating a duller and rounder sound. Overall, the differences in the housing materials of these switches give them distinct acoustic characteristics.
Despite their differences, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 both offer unique sound experiences due to their housing materials. The use of proprietary INK blend by Gateron in the Ink Black V2 results in a satisfying and clacky sound profile, while the nylon material used in the Light Cloud V2 provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, if you are looking for a switch with a similar sound profile, both switches offer a high-pitched sound quality in their bottom housings. This similarity in sound suggests that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a distinct and enjoyable typing experience based on the housing material used.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note how the top and bottom housings influence the overall sound profile. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the INK blend in the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the nylon in the TTC Light Cloud V2, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. In contrast, the top housing of the switch has more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the contributions of each housing material can help users appreciate the nuanced differences in sound and feel between switches like the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Light Cloud V2.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Light Cloud V2 will offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy and medium categories respectively, making them suitable for different preferences. Depending on whether someone prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, they can choose between the two switches accordingly.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, we can see that the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Light Cloud V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Light Cloud V2. Traditionalists may appreciate the 4.0mm travel distance of the Ink Black V2, while those looking for a slightly quicker response may prefer the 3.5mm travel distance of the Light Cloud V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone with a hint of chirpiness, providing a satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch produces a muted sound that is softer and quieter, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a more subtle typing experience. The neutral sound profile of the Light Cloud V2 ensures that it can be used in various settings without causing disruptions. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch also depends on factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the Ink Black V2 results in a smooth and refined typing feel, while the Light Cloud V2 is described as easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, making them suitable for various typing tasks.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Black V2 provides a richer and bassier sound with a polished typing feel, the Light Cloud V2 offers a muted sound and easy-to-press experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing feel, either switch could be a suitable choice. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, you'll want to consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a silent typing experience with a refined feel, the Light Cloud V2 could be the better option. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched, bassy sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Ink Black V2 may be more to your liking. Conversely, if you prefer a muted sound profile and an easy-to-press, feathery typing feel, the Light Cloud V2 might be the better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Experimenting with both switches may help you determine which one suits your typing style best.
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