TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their distinct characteristics. The Light Cloud V2 is lauded for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a gentle and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, offering a unique and vibrant typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 is categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', while the Lightning Silver V3 is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, the key difference lies in the materials used for both the top and bottom housings. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon for both top and bottom housings, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 employs polycarbonate for both housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the distinction in sound profiles between nylon and polycarbonate is evident in their top and bottom housing compositions.
However, if we focus solely on the top housing of each switch, the contrast becomes more pronounced. The Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a deeper typing experience. In comparison, the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate top housing delivers a clear and resonant sound, emphasizing sharpness and clarity in typing. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a preferred choice for those looking to add visual flair to their keyboard setups.
Ultimately, the choice between the Light Cloud V2 and the Lightning Silver V3 will depend on personal preference in sound and aesthetics. While both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials, the nylon and polycarbonate compositions cater to different typing experiences. Whether you prioritize a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon or a sharper and clearer sound profile with polycarbonate, each switch provides distinct characteristics that can elevate your typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch both fall into the medium weight category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Light Cloud V2 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Lightning Silver V3's 48 grams, but both have a similar bottom out force of 58 grams and 60 grams, respectively. This means that users can expect a comparable typing experience with either switch, as the differences in force are minimal. However, those who prefer a slightly lighter touch may lean towards the Light Cloud V2, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and comfort during prolonged use.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lightning Silver V3 would be considered the shorter option. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for their faster response times. However, some users may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 to provide a more satisfying depth when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more substantial key press feel.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 Light Cloud V2 offers a muted and neutral experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that adds a crisp and bright element to your typing sessions. If you prefer a more pronounced and distinct sound profile, the Lightning Silver V3 might be the better option for you.
Moving on to feel, the Light Cloud V2 delivers a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience. With gentle resistance and light actuation force, typing on these switches can be effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you value a smooth and seamless typing feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is a solid choice to consider.
Overall, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a quiet and nuanced typing experience with its muted sound and gentle feel, suitable for those seeking a delicate touch. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 stands out with its clacky, high-pitched sound and silky smooth feel, adding vibrancy to your typing sessions. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In wrapping up our comparison between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a silent and refined typing experience with a delicate feel, the Light Cloud V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth typing feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is the way to go. Consider factors such as sound profile, actuation force, and overall typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences. Whether you choose the Light Cloud V2 or the Lightning Silver V3, both switches offer unique features and qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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