TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer distinct advantages for different types of typists. The Light Cloud V2 stands out as a linear switch that provides a refined and silent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a gentle and delicate keypress. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch with a sharp tactile bump, ideal for those who crave a more pronounced typing feedback. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to specific preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing that creates a pleasing and muted sound with a deeper tone. While both switches provide a deep sound profile, the nylon housing of the Light Cloud V2 may produce a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the more muted sound of the POM housing in the Blueberry.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, both switches use nylon and POM, respectively. The nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2 contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile, much like its top housing. Meanwhile, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry also adds to the switch's unique sound by offering a deeper and more muted tone. Despite the difference in materials between the bottom housings, both switches maintain consistent sound qualities throughout their construction, resulting in a cohesive typing experience.
In terms of overall typing experience, the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each keypress. While the nylon top and bottom housings of the Light Cloud V2 offer a softer and more absorbing quality, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, the POM top and bottom housings of the Blueberry provide a unique and pleasing sound profile with a deeper and more muted tone. Regardless of the specific housing materials used, both switches aim to enhance the user's typing experience by delivering distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. The Light Cloud V2 offers a more effortless typing experience with a lighter touch, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer different levels of force feedback, catering to different preferences. Those looking for a lighter typing experience should opt for the Light Cloud V2, while those who prefer a heavier push feel should choose the NovelKeys Blueberry for a more robust typing experience.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch. The Light Cloud V2 provides a quicker keypress response due to its shorter travel distance, making it popular among gamers. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a slightly deeper keystroke experience with its longer travel distance. Both switches have their advantages, with the Light Cloud V2 offering speed and the Blueberry providing a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in a mechanical keyboard.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch produces a low-pitched and resonant sound, with a sharp tactile bump that creates a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their needs.
When it comes to feel, the Light Cloud V2 switch provides a mild and easy-to-press typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and reduces fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feathery nature of these switches makes them comfortable for long periods of use, whether it be for gaming, school, or work. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a snappy and invigorating feel, with a buttery and textured keystroke experience that provides pronounced feedback and responsive typing sensation. The stiff nature of these switches requires a higher amount of force to actuate, offering a different typing experience compared to the Light Cloud V2.
Overall, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Cloud V2 provides a muted and easy-to-press typing experience, ideal for those seeking a refined and gentle keypress. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch delivers a low-pitched and snappy typing feel with pronounced feedback and a sharp tactile bump. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to enhance their overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a delicate and nuanced typing experience with a lightweight feel and a muted, neutral sound profile, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump with a heavy bottom out force, along with a low-pitched, resonant sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
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