TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Mamba both offer unique advantages and characteristics worth exploring. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it a great choice for those looking for a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Mamba switches pay tribute to Kobe Bryant and deliver a smooth gliding typing sensation with a rich auditory experience. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', the Mamba is classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Mamba share some similarities in that they both utilize nylon in their top housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a unique sound profile that is slightly brighter compared to the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing. This difference in sound profile can impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a particular sound quality.
While both switches feature nylon in their top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Light Cloud V2 uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba utilizes a POM bottom housing which creates a more muted sound profile compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2. This difference in sound profile between the bottom housings can affect the overall typing experience and sound output of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Mamba plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While both switches incorporate nylon in their top housing, the unique blend used in the Mamba creates a slightly brighter sound compared to the deeper sound of the Light Cloud V2. Additionally, the different bottom housing materials further contribute to the overall sound profile, with the POM bottom housing of the Mamba offering a more muted sound compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2. Ultimately, users may prefer one switch over the other based on their preference for sound quality and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is evident that the Light Cloud V2 is the lighter option. With an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, it provides a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 60 grams, also falling into the medium category. Both switches offer a balanced typing experience, with the Light Cloud V2 being slightly lighter overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Light Cloud V2 may be the preferred choice, while the Durock Mamba may appeal to those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style, but both switches provide a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance. The equal travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and actuation point. Due to their identical travel distances, neither switch can be categorized as shorter or longer than the other. Instead, users can expect a uniform typing experience with either the TTC Light Cloud V2 or the Durock Mamba linear switch.
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 Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Mamba switches share a neutral sound profile, with the Light Cloud V2 being described as muted and the Mamba being described as thocky. The Light Cloud V2 offers a softer and quieter typing experience, while the Mamba produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both switches provide a mild and gentle typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 is noted for its easy-to-press and feathery attributes, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and enhances typing comfort. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba is described as mild and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing feel that reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel.
Overall, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Mamba linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a muted, easy-to-press switch with a feathery feel, the Light Cloud V2 would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky sound and a polished, refined typing experience, the Mamba switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch or the Durock Mamba linear switch, your decision may come down to personal preference and typing style. If you value a silent typing experience with a lightweight touch, the TTC Light Cloud V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer medium bottom out force, but the Light Cloud V2 is more muted and has an easy-to-press feel, while the Mamba has a neutral sound profile and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what aspects of typing experience matter most to you.
Mentioned in this article
