TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Dareu Mahjong both offer distinct advantages for users seeking a specific typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 stands out for its refined and silent operation, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing feel. On the other hand, the Mahjong switches are known for their unique green and white color scheme and lively, poppy sound signature, providing an effortless typing experience for users. While the Light Cloud V2 is praised for its 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery' characteristics, the Mahjong is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches both have unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky typing experience. Both materials have their strengths, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound, and POK offering exceptional durability and shock resistance. Despite their differences, both nylon and POK top housings aim to enhance the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches use nylon as the material. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, ultimately creating a duller and rounder sound. While the top housing may have a more noticeable impact on the sound when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, despite the slight differences in top housing material between the Light Cloud V2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches, both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing feel. While the Mahjong's POK top housing offers additional benefits such as exceptional durability and shock resistance, the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing excels in creating a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly heavier force of 58 grams compared to the Mahjong which does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to actuate, the Light Cloud V2 will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mahjong, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the Light Cloud V2 for a more satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Dareu Mahjong linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, it may still be noticeable to those who have a preference for a specific feel. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the travel distance spectrum, making them suitable for gamers seeking faster response times. The Light Cloud V2 may provide a slightly deeper press compared to the Mahjong, but overall, users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of travel distance.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning they produce a moderate level of noise suitable for most environments and purposes. The Light Cloud V2 offers a muted sound, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, while the Mahjong switches have a lively and poppy sound signature. However, how loud a switch sounds can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Light Cloud V2 is characterized by its mild and easy-to-press qualities, offering a gentle and effortless typing experience. These switches are feathery, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches provide a bouncy and lively typing experience, with keys that offer a spring-like feedback sensation. Additionally, they are described as mild and polished, with a smooth and refined finish for enhanced typing comfort.
Considering the information provided, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Cloud V2 provides a quiet and easy-to-press typing experience, ideal for those seeking a delicate and nuanced feel, while the Mahjong switches offer a livelier sound and bouncy feedback sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch or the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prioritize a refined and silent typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a unique visual design, lively sound signature, and a smooth typing experience, the Mahjong switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall keyboard aesthetics. It's important to test out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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