KTT Laurel vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and the TTC Light Cloud V2 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Laurel is a linear switch that boasts a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, providing a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch is ideal for those who prefer a snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is a linear switch known for its silent operation and refined typing feel. Its lightweight nature makes it a top choice for users looking for a delicate and nuanced typing experience. Choosing between the Laurel and Light Cloud V2 ultimately depends on your preference for sound profile, typing feel, and tactile response. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and TTC Light Cloud V2 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Laurel utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 employs nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials create a similar deep sound, the POM in the Laurel may provide a slightly more muted tone compared to the rounder sound produced by the nylon in the Light Cloud V2.
Despite their differences, the POM and nylon materials used in the housing of the Laurel and Light Cloud V2 serve to enhance the overall typing experience. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the POM material in the Laurel's housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Both materials offer a tactile feel that complements the sound produced by the switches, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to recognize how the top and bottom housing influence different aspects of typing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. In the case of the Laurel and Light Cloud V2, the qualities of their respective housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom housing, ultimately shaping the overall typing experience for each switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch provide interesting points of comparison. The Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. The Laurel would be considered the lighter option, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prefer either a lighter or a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 3.5 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide similar results in terms of travel distance, offering a consistent experience for users. Therefore, in this aspect, the Laurel and Light Cloud V2 switches are equal in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its low-pitched profile, which offers a bass-heavy and mellower tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as having a muted and neutral sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. Depending on the user's preference, the Laurel switch may be more appealing to those who enjoy a lower-pitched sound, while the Light Cloud V2 switch is better suited for users who prefer a quieter typing environment.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is praised for its snappy and responsive typing experience, thanks to its longer pole design and full POM housing. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press feel, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Light Cloud V2 switch is also described as feathery, providing a comfortable typing experience for tasks such as gaming, school, or work. Users who prioritize a more responsive typing feel may lean towards the Laurel switch, while those who prefer a gentle and effortless typing experience may prefer the Light Cloud V2 switch.
Overall, the KTT Laurel linear switch and TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Laurel switch leans towards a lower-pitched sound and snappier feel, the Light Cloud V2 switch provides a muted sound profile and a mild, easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of typing styles and needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the user's specific preferences for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize a snappy and responsive typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Laurel switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a mild and easy-to-press typing feel with a muted and neutral sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Remember to test out both options if possible to determine which switch aligns best with your typing needs.
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