TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular linear options worth considering are the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Lotus (Heavy). The TTC Light Cloud V2 is celebrated for its lightweight design and silent operation, making it an ideal choice for users who desire a subtle and refined typing feel, perfect for quiet environments or extended typing sessions. Its characteristics of mildness, muted sound, and feathery action appeal to those who prioritize a delicate touch. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) boasts a more substantial weight of 62.5g and delivers a bright, resonant sound, providing a satisfying, bouncy feedback that many typists find exhilarating. This switch caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience and enjoy the auditory element of keyboard usage. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), it is notable that both models utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This consistency in material choice suggests that both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s inherent properties as a softer plastic contribute to its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a dulled and rounded auditory output. Consequently, whether using the Light Cloud V2 or the Lotus (Heavy), users can anticipate an engaging typing experience marked by a satisfying acoustic quality.
The design implications of using nylon in both the top and bottom housings are intriguing as well. While both switches share identical material attributes, the impact on the typing experience may still exhibit subtle differences stemming from their specific designs and configurations. For instance, slight variations in weight, spring tension, or stem design can alter how the nylon effectively dampens the sound and feels when pressed. Therefore, despite the same housing materials, users may find distinct tactile responses between the two models, although they will still resonate with the characteristic properties of nylon.
Moreover, the role each housing plays enhances the overall performance of the switches. In both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and HMX Lotus (Heavy), the bottom housing is pivotal in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed. Conversely, the top housing predominantly influences the sound when the key is released. Thus, while the use of nylon in both models ensures a common auditory signature, the interplay between the haptic experiences provided by the varied switch designs could lead to unique tactile outcomes. Ultimately, users may achieve similar acoustic results but can expect differing tactile feedback that reflects the particular construction nuances of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch to the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that contribute to their unique typing experiences. The Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it the lighter option. This lower force can facilitate longer typing sessions, which is ideal for those who prioritize comfort during extended use, such as in professional settings or during lengthy gaming marathons. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This increased resistance provides a more substantial typing experience, catering to users who prefer a firmer touch when typing. Both switches fall within the medium range of force specifications, but the Lotus clearly offers a heftier feel compared to the lighter Light Cloud V2. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you lean towards a lighter feel for comfort or a heavier resistance for a more tactile engagement.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation consistency when utilizing either switch, ensuring a comparable 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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is characterized by a muted and neutral acoustic profile. This design ensures that each keystroke produces a softer and quieter sound, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise reduction is important, such as an office or shared space. The neutrality in sound makes it versatile, catering to both beginners and experienced users alike, as it strikes a good balance between being unobtrusive and functional. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) produces a brighter, more resonant sound, though the specifics of its sound characteristics are not detailed. Given this, one can infer that the Lotus won't prioritize quiet operation in the same way as the Light Cloud V2, making it potentially more suited for those who enjoy audible feedback with their keystrokes.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 excels with its mild sensitivity, easy-to-press mechanism, and feathery touch. Each keystroke feels incredibly gentle, requiring minimal effort, which can significantly enhance comfort during prolonged use. This switch is perfect for users who value a light, responsive typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is stated to provide a super bouncy feeling and has a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, suggesting that it offers a more pronounced tactile experience with a heavier resistance. The lack of detailed descriptors for the Lotus may leave some aspects of its feel to the imagination, but its designation as "heavy" implies it caters to those who favor a more substantial keystroke.
In summary, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard landscape. The Light Cloud V2 is optimal for users seeking a muted, easy-to-press, and refined typing experience, ideal for quieter settings and longer typing periods. Meanwhile, the Lotus (Heavy) is tailored for enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced and resonant keystroke, characterized by its bounciness and substantial weight. Depending on your typing style and environment, either switch offers unique advantages that can dramatically influence your overall keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a quiet, subdued typing experience that minimizes noise, the Light Cloud V2 is your best option. Its lightweight action and mild feel make it particularly well-suited for long typing sessions, whether you’re working, studying, or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue and provides a gentle touch. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and bouncy feedback while typing, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) will likely be more appealing. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force and resonant sound profile, this switch offers a more pronounced response that can be satisfying for those who enjoy a little extra resistance and auditory feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean towards a refined, quiet typing experience with the Light Cloud V2 or a more engaging, dynamic feel with the Lotus (Heavy).
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