TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that both offer unique benefits to keyboard enthusiasts. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic stands out for reinvigorating the clicky switch category with advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with added smoothness. While the Light Cloud V2 offers a mild and easy-to-press feel, the Melodic provides a buttery and invigorating typing experience. 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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Melodic, one significant difference lies in their top housings. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Melodic employs polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer composition. While both materials excel in providing unique sound profiles, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on personal preference for the type of typing experience desired.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Melodic feature nylon bottom housing. This similarity results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon's softer nature absorbs sound effectively. While both switches share this characteristic, the quality of the typing experience may vary depending on other factors such as keycap material or keyboard layout. Ultimately, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent sound profile and a tactile typing experience for users.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, the similarities in bottom housing between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Melodic ensure a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel remains consistent in both switches, contributing to a deeper and fuller typing sound. However, the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key may exhibit variations between the nylon and polycarbonate materials utilized in the Light Cloud V2 and the Melodic, respectively. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch both fall into the medium weight category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Melodic has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches provide a moderate amount of resistance, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a balance between light and heavy typing experiences. The Light Cloud V2 may feel slightly lighter due to its lower bottom out force, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Melodic offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a firmer keystroke. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch. The Light Cloud V2's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Melodic's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to whether you prefer a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more tactile one.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 offers a muted and neutral sound profile, focusing on minimizing noise while still providing a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound, giving users a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a nostalgic clicky sound reminiscent of crunching autumn leaves. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a quieter, more subdued typing experience with the Light Cloud V2 or a more vibrant, tactile experience with the Melodic switch.
When it comes to feel, the Light Cloud V2 switch is characterized by a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience, catering to those who prefer a gentle and effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating feel, focusing on providing a smooth and uniform keystroke with pronounced feedback and a more reactive typing sensation. Whether you prefer a light and easy typing experience or a more tactile and responsive feel, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Overall, the Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Melodic switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. With the Light Cloud V2 offering a quieter and gentler typing experience, and the Gateron Melodic providing a more vibrant and tactile feel, users can choose the switch that best suits their preferences. Ultimately, if you enjoy a softer and more subtle typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 is the ideal choice, while those who prefer a more pronounced and tactile feel may opt for the Gateron Melodic switch. Since both switches offer distinct characteristics, users can expect different results depending on their preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a silent and delicate typing feel with a quieter sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and immersive typing experience with a higher-pitched and crunchy sound profile, the Melodic switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
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