TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a linear switch like the TTC Light Cloud V2 and a tactile switch like the SP-Star Meteor Orange can greatly impact your typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent and refined feel, offering a delicate and nuanced typing experience that is easy on the fingers. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches are known for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', the Meteor Orange falls under 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater 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
57g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and SP-Star Meteor Orange both feature nylon top and bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
However, while both the Light Cloud V2 and Meteor Orange utilize nylon housing materials for both the top and bottom, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in slight variations in sound and feel. The distribution of the housing material's qualities may differ in each switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing may influence the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing construction could potentially lead to subtle variations in typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of housing material, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and SP-Star Meteor Orange offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon for both top and bottom housings. The deeper and fuller sound profile achieved with nylon housing provides users with a satisfying typing experience that is consistent across both switches. Whether it's the light Cloud V2 or the Meteor Orange, users can expect a pleasant typing experience characterized by a softer, more absorbent housing material that enhances sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Light Cloud V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Meteor Orange, which has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange has a slightly lighter force of 57 grams compared to the Light Cloud V2's 58 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force, with the Light Cloud V2 leaning slightly towards the heavier side. These differences in force can impact the typing experience for users, with some preferring the lighter actuation force for extended typing periods, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Light Cloud V2 offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast feedback. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the Light Cloud V2 being the shorter option and the SP-Star Meteor Orange being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
When it comes to sound, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. However, the Light Cloud V2 is noted for its muted sound, producing softer and quieter keystrokes compared to regular switches, which may be preferable for those seeking a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch is described as thocky, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, providing a unique auditory feedback that some users may find more appealing.
In terms of feel, both switches are considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys, resulting in a comfortable and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the feathery nature of the Light Cloud V2 makes it exceptionally light to press, further enhancing the typing experience for activities like gaming, school, or work. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch is noted for its polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience due to materials used or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek feel.
Considering the available information, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a muted and feathery typing experience with a lightweight nature, the Meteor Orange stands out for its thocky sound profile and polished feel. Both switches cater to users looking for a gentle and nuanced typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets their individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a lightweight and nuanced typing feel with a muted sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and polished tactility with a thocky sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch could be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the attributes that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. It's important to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing preferences best.
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