TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Oil King are two popular choices for those seeking a smooth typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined feel, making it a great option for users who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King stands out for its buttery smoothness and rich sound profile, providing a satisfying tactile feel akin to snapping a dark chocolate bar. While the Light Cloud V2 offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, the Oil King presents a creamy and polished feel. 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
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Oil King, both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. As a result, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon top housings. The similarities in top housing material between the Light Cloud V2 and the Oil King suggest that users can anticipate similar sound profiles and typing experiences when using these switches.
However, where the Light Cloud V2 differs from the Gateron Oil King is in the bottom housing material. While the Light Cloud V2 features a nylon bottom housing, the Oil King utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing. This blend is recognized for producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. The use of different bottom housing materials in these switches suggests that users may experience variations in the sound and feel when bottoming out keys, with the Oil King potentially offering a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the Light Cloud V2.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in switches like the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Oil King plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a nylon top housing that creates a deep and fuller sound, their differences lie in the bottom housing materials. The Oil King's unique INK blend bottom housing provides a distinct pointed and high-pitched sound, offering a clacky typing experience that contrasts with the rounder sound produced by the Light Cloud V2's nylon bottom housing. Users may find that the bottom housing material significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that the Light Cloud V2 is lighter in both aspects. The Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Light Cloud V2 will provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Oil King. For those who prefer a softer touch and lighter feel, the Light Cloud V2 would be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Oil King. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Light Cloud V2 has a shorter travel distance compared to the Oil King. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a faster response time and a more sensitive keypress, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better option. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King with its slightly longer travel distance might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress sensitivity.
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 described as producing a muted and neutral sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. Depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the muted and neutral sound of the Light Cloud V2 or the low-pitched and bassy sound of the Oil King.
Regarding feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience. These qualities make typing effortless, comfortable, and reduce finger fatigue during extended use. Conversely, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing sensation. With a smooth and buttery feel, users can expect a seamless and refined typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. Whether one prefers the gentle and light feel of the Light Cloud V2 or the smooth and polished feel of the Oil King, both switches offer unique tactile experiences tailored to different preferences.
In conclusion, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Gateron Oil King linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Cloud V2 provides a muted and neutral sound along with a mild and easy-to-press typing feel, while the Oil King produces a low-pitched and bassy sound along with a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the delicate nuances of the Light Cloud V2 or the smoothness of the Oil King to create their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences for a refined and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a lightweight typing experience with a muted sound profile and easy-to-press key presses, the Light Cloud V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a buttery smooth feel, low-pitched sound profile, and creamy typing experience, then the Oil King might be more suitable for your needs. Consider how you like your typing experience to feel and sound, and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take your time to test them out and see which one resonates with you the most.
Mentioned in this article
