TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that both options offer a unique typing experience. The TTC Light Cloud V2 is celebrated for its silent operation and refined feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is designed specifically for office settings, offering a quiet typing experience while maintaining a comfortable actuation force. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that appeal to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Mountain Top both use nylon as their housing material, providing a classic switch housing experience. The nylon material in both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This softness of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a more muted typing experience overall. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile when typing on both the Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Mountain Top switches.
In terms of the top housing, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Mountain Top utilize nylon for this component. This means that the sound produced when letting go of a key will be influenced by the nylon material in both switches. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a more rounded and muted sound profile overall. Additionally, the tactile feedback and feel of releasing a key will be consistent between the two switches, providing a similar typing experience for users on both the Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Mountain Top.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Mountain Top also use nylon, allowing for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when bottoming out a key. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the nylon material in both switches, providing a similar typing experience for users. Therefore, whether pressing down on a key or releasing it, users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience with both the Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Mountain Top switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is clear that the Mountain Top switch is the lighter option. The Light Cloud V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Mountain Top's 40 grams, making it require slightly more force to trigger a keystroke. When it comes to bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 also requires more force with 58 grams compared to the Mountain Top's 50 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to light range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a comfortable typing experience for extended periods. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Mountain Top's 3.4 mm. The difference in distance may not be significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience depending on personal preferences. For those who prefer a quicker response time, the Light Cloud V2 with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Mountain Top to be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, providing a seamless typing or gaming experience for users.
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 Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is known for producing a muted and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those looking for a more subtle and discreet switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch also offers a neutral sound profile, catering to office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Both switches provide a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various settings, whether at home or in a professional work environment. It is important to note that the overall sound of the switch can be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a gentle and easy-to-press typing experience with a feathery touch, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, on the other hand, provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, giving a lively feedback sensation with minimal force required for activation. Both switches offer a mild typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making them suitable for a wide range of users and typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Gateron Mountain Top linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and environments. While the Light Cloud V2 focuses on a muted and gentle typing experience, perfect for those seeking a refined and delicate feel, the Mountain Top switch provides a balanced mix of quietness and ease of activation, ideal for professional settings. Depending on your personal preferences and typing needs, either switch can provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of overall satisfaction with either choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a supremely refined and delicate typing experience with a muted and neutral sound profile, opt for the TTC Light Cloud V2. This switch is best suited for those who value a lightweight and feathery typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you require a switch tailored for office environments that offers a quiet yet responsive typing experience with a bouncy and subtle feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific preferences and typing needs to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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