TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Lightning, both linear switches. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning is known for its speed, making it ideal for situations where quick reactions are crucial. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Easy-to-press', the Lightning is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Chirpy'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your individual typing style and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Lightning, one can see a clear difference in the materials used. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users depending on their preference for sound and feel.
Furthermore, when looking at the bottom housing of these switches, both the Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Lightning use nylon material. This means that despite their differences in top housing material, both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic composition of nylon. This similarity in bottom housing material may result in a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel for users who prioritize these qualities in their mechanical keyboards.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Lightning will largely come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Light Cloud V2 offers a duller and rounder sound with its nylon top housing, the Lightning provides a clearer and resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Users looking for a more muted typing experience may lean towards the Light Cloud V2, while those who prefer a crisper sound may opt for the KTT Lightning. However, both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent level of depth and fullness in sound profile across both options.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Lightning linear switch. The Light Cloud V2 requires 45 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 58 grams to bottom out, making it a medium weight option. In contrast, the Lightning switch only requires 43 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, giving it a lighter feel overall. This difference in weight may appeal to different preferences, as some users may prefer the lighter feel of the Lightning switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may enjoy the more substantial typing experience provided by the slightly heavier Light Cloud V2 switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. In this case, the Light Cloud V2 has a longer travel distance compared to the Lightning switch. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some individuals. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming may lean towards the Light Cloud V2 with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch provides a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile, which may appeal to those looking for a more sharp and crisp typing sound with a unique acoustic signature. Depending on personal preference and setup, the sound of these switches can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is characterized by a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience, offering a gentle resistance and light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the KTT Lightning switch provides a subtle and polished feel, with a gentle resistance and smooth key travel that contributes to a sleek typing experience suitable for shared spaces. Both switches offer a light and responsive typing feel, catering to users with different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and KTT Lightning linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a quieter and gentler typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better choice, while those seeking a sharper and crisper typing sound may lean towards the Lightning switch. Ultimately, both switches provide a light and responsive typing feel that can enhance your overall typing experience, depending on your specific preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a refined and delicate typing experience, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch with its medium bottom out force of 58 grams is a great choice. The muted sound profile and mild feel make it suitable for various typing tasks without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness in your keystrokes, the KTT Lightning linear switch with its light 50-gram bottom out force is the way to go. The clacky sound profile and subtle feel offer a unique typing sensation that is perfect for gaming or any fast-paced typing activities. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches should be based on the specific qualities and typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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