HMX KD200 vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 present two contrasting yet appealing options for enthusiasts. The KD200, recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers an engaging auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound. Its linear design ensures smooth key presses, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming or typing sessions where audio feedback is a rewarding feature. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is revered for its silent operation and soft touch, boasting a lightweight design that caters to users looking for a gentle and refined typing feel. This switch’s mild and muted characteristics make it ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise reduction is prioritized. While both switches deliver a smooth linear experience, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback. 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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and TTC Light Cloud V2 both feature nylon as the primary material for their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material has significant implications for their auditory and tactile performance, leading to a similar experience when typing. Nylon, known for its softer and more absorptive characteristics compared to harder plastics, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The use of nylon in both models suggests that users can expect a distinctive rounder sound, optimizing the acoustic enjoyment during typing sessions.
As both the KD200 and Light Cloud V2 utilize nylon in their switch housings, the way this material influences the overall typing experience is noteworthy. The bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily affects the sound upon releasing a key. Since both models' top and bottom housings share the same nylon construction, users will closely resemble the auditory qualities, with the rich and dulcet tones being consistent across both switches. This uniformity reinforces the notion that the materials employed for these switches are essential in crafting a similar aural experience.
However, while both switches utilize nylon, differences may arise in their overall design and assembly, which could potentially affect the feel and responsiveness of the switches. Should either switch incorporate unique features or engineering in their construction—like spring tension, actuation point, or additional dampening materials—the typing experience may diverge despite the shared housing materials. Ultimately, while the nylon construction of the top and bottom housings will yield comparable sound profiles, finer mechanical details dictate the nuances in feel and performance unique to each switch.
Weight
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which gives them a similar feel in terms of triggering a keystroke, making both options suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing excessive fatigue. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the KD200 registering at 50 grams while the Light Cloud V2 is heavier at 58 grams. This difference indicates that while both switches provide a light actuation feel, the KD200 offers a softer bottoming out experience, which may be preferred by those seeking a more delicate touch in their typing. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Light Cloud V2 can provide a more substantial feel under the fingers, appealing to users who favor a stronger resistance with each keystroke. Overall, while both switches allow for a similar actuation experience, the KD200 is the lighter choice, ideal for prolonged use, whereas the Light Cloud V2's heavier bottom out will cater to those who appreciate a firmer typing sensation.
Travel distance
Both the HMX KD200 linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience an identical distance from the top to the bottom, resulting in similar keypress feedback. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect a consistent feel during use, ensuring a uniform experience whether they choose one switch over the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 KD200 linear switch is characterized by its distinctly clacky nature, making it the most pronounced in sound among the HMX Film switch family. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2 excels in producing a muted and neutral acoustic profile, resulting in a significantly quieter typing experience. This quality minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it especially suitable for environments where silence is preferred. Thus, while the KD200 offers an engaging auditory feedback, the Light Cloud V2 provides a more subtle and restrained sound that will appeal to those who wish to keep their typing discreet.
In terms of feel, the KD200's specific feel remains unspecified; however, comparison with the Light Cloud V2 offers some insights into the difference. The Light Cloud V2 is celebrated for its mild typing experience, characterized by gentle resistance and a feather-light actuation that makes each press effortlessly enjoyable. This design greatly diminishes finger fatigue, making the Light Cloud V2 an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. Whereas the KD200 may emphasize a more tactile response due to its clacky nature, the Light Cloud V2 provides a soft and smooth feel that enhances overall comfort and decreases strain on the fingers.
In summary, while the HMX KD200 switch provides an engaging auditory experience with its clacky sound, the TTC Light Cloud V2 shines in delivering a whisper-quiet operation alongside a highly comfortable and effortless typing feel. If you prefer a more pronounced sound with your keystrokes, the KD200 might be the way to go. Conversely, if silence and a light touch are your priorities, the Light Cloud V2 stands out as an exemplary choice. Ultimately, selecting between these switches hinges on whether you value sound or a gentle typing experience more, as both offer enjoyable features in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX KD200 and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter pressing experience with a notable clacky sound, the KD200 is your go-to option. Its bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a spirited typing feel and are not concerned about noise—making it ideal for enthusiast gamers or typists who savor a tactile auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you favor a quieter and more refined experience, the TTC Light Cloud V2 should be your switch of choice. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 58 grams, it offers a muted sound profile and a smooth, delicate feel that is easy to press, significantly reducing finger fatigue during extended use. This makes the Light Cloud V2 particularly suited for office environments or shared spaces where noise reduction is key, while still providing comfort during long typing sessions. In the end, consider how much sound and force matter to you, as well as the kind of experience you desire to create at your keyboard.
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