Durock Koala vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala 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 Koala and TTC Light Cloud V2 offer unique experiences to cater to different preferences. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that strikes a perfect balance for users who enjoy a satisfying keystroke without overwhelming feedback. With a stepped tactility and subtle bump, it provides a tactile response without being too loud. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is a linear switch known for its silent operation and smooth typing feel. Its lightweight and easy-to-press nature make it an ideal choice for those seeking a gentle and refined typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
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 spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Koala and the TTC Light Cloud V2 differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Koala utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2. The polycarbonate top housing of the Koala is known for its translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 is a classic choice known for its sound absorption qualities.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing of both switches, they share a similar nylon material. This results in both switches offering a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softer composition and sound absorption properties. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, impacting the overall typing experience for users. Despite their differences in top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that users can expect a comparable sound profile between the Durock Koala and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the Durock Koala and the TTC Light Cloud V2 can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience for users. While the Koala's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound compared to the deeper tone of the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that provides a similar deep and full sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper sound or a fuller tone, understanding the effects of different housing materials on switch performance can help you choose the ideal switch for your typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Koala has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Light Cloud V2's 58 grams. However, the Light Cloud V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Koala's actuation force is not specified. This means that the Light Cloud V2 may provide a lighter typing experience overall, as it requires less force to actuate a key. On the other hand, the Koala may offer a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Koala has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Light Cloud V2's 3.5 mm. The Koala offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers or individuals seeking faster response times and a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 subjective qualities of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, the sound profile is where they differ the most. The Koala switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with moderate actuation force requirements. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 switch offers a muted and neutral sound, creating a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Koala switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, offering a smooth, refined key press with a pronounced tactile bump that is not overwhelming. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 switch is characterized as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, providing a gentle and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing experience, but the Koala leans towards a more tactile and pronounced feel, while the Light Cloud V2 focuses on a smooth and easy typing experience.
In conclusion, if you prefer a switch with a more tactile and pronounced feel along with a low-pitched sound, the Durock Koala switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you seek a switch that offers a smoother and quieter typing experience with a light actuation force, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, but the decision between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your individual needs.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a polished, stepped feel, the Koala switches are an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, muted switch with a medium bottom-out force and a mild, easy-to-press feel, the Light Cloud V2 switches may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you prioritize a punchier typing experience with the Koala switches or a more delicate and refined feel with the Light Cloud V2 switches. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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