PH Studio Jacaranda vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Light Cloud V2, both linear switches but with unique characteristics. The Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, is known for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and perfect for fatigue-free typing. It offers a clacky sound signature and a bouncy sensation with its extended 22mm spring, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 from TTC is praised for its silent operation and refined typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience. While the Jacaranda leans towards being clacky and high-pitched, the Light Cloud V2 is described as mild, muted, and easy-to-press. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Light Cloud V2 both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in materials leads to distinct typing experiences for users of each switch. Despite this contrast, both switches prioritize the sound quality that the housing material brings, making them ideal choices for those who value sound when typing.
In terms of their bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. While the top and bottom housings of the two switches serve different purposes during typing, the use of nylon in both components ensures a consistent sound experience for users. This similarity in housing material indicates that both switches are designed with sound quality in mind, offering a satisfying tactile feedback to users.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Light Cloud V2 plays a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda creates a clear and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 produces a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound experience across both switches. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper tone, these switches provide distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials used in each switch contribute to their unique sound signatures, making them standout choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch to the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is the lighter option in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Light Cloud V2 due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the Jacaranda is better suited for users who prefer a lighter typing feel, while the Light Cloud V2 offers a slightly heavier and more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This makes them both equally suitable options for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their switches. Ultimately, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and feedback when using either of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp feedback with every press. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as having a muted and neutral sound, minimizing noise and offering a more moderate sound profile suitable for various environments. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a brighter and more percussive tone, while the Light Cloud V2 provides a softer and quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and enhancing overall smoothness during key presses. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 switch is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, providing a gentle and low-impact typing feel that is comfortable and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches offer unique tactile qualities, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and the Light Cloud V2 prioritizing ease of use and light actuation force.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch each have their own strengths in sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in producing a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth typing feel, while the Light Cloud V2 offers a muted and neutral sound alongside a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches provide a distinct typing experience that caters to different user needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a sharper, more audible feedback or a quieter, more gentle typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its light bottom-out force and unique 22mm spring make it a great option for those who prioritize comfort and tactile feedback in their typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more muted and gentle typing feel with a neutral sound profile, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch would be the better fit for you. With its easy-to-press nature and refined typing feel, it is a suitable option for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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