TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Orange are two popular options to consider. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it a great choice for those looking for a gentle and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches offer a bouncy typing feel with a frictionless experience and low-pitched sound profile, thanks to its unique design and factory-lubing. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', the KTT Orange is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that may appeal 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
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Orange, it is evident that they differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Orange features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, they each contribute to the overall typing experience in distinct ways.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Light Cloud V2 and the Orange, they both offer their own advantages based on the specific characteristics of the materials used. The nylon housing of the Light Cloud V2 provides a duller and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the Orange delivers a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the Light Cloud V2's nylon housing is more likely to elicit a deeper sound when bottoming out keys, while the Orange's polycarbonate housing may result in a sharper sound when releasing keys. Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound and typing feel.
In situations where the housing materials of a switch differ between the top and bottom, such as with the Light Cloud V2 and the Orange, the qualities of each material are split between the two parts of the switch. This means that when typing on these switches, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Despite this division of qualities, both switches are likely to offer a satisfying typing experience based on the unique characteristics of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, the Light Cloud V2 is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Orange's 46 grams. However, the Light Cloud V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Orange's 53 grams, making the Orange switch overall lighter in terms of bottoming out. Both switches fall under the medium to medium-light category, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback for users. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience will ultimately depend on personal preference, with the Light Cloud V2 being slightly heavier overall.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys move when pressed. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of feel and performance when using either the Light Cloud V2 or the Orange switches.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 linear switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on your preference for sound, the Light Cloud V2 may be more suitable for a noise-sensitive environment, while the Orange switch could be preferred for its unique low-pitched profile.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is known for its mild, easy-to-press, and feathery qualities, providing a gentle and effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a bouncy and frictionless feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth key travel experience. Depending on your typing style and preference for keypress feedback, you may find the Light Cloud V2 more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while the Orange switch offers a lively and frictionless feel that promotes fluid typing.
Overall, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch excels in providing a refined and nuanced typing experience with its muted sound profile, gentle feel, and lightweight nature. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile, bouncy feel, and frictionless typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel, making them suitable choices for those looking for a specific typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience with the Light Cloud V2 or prefer a livelier feel with the Orange switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a refined and delicate typing experience with a muted sound profile, as well as a mild and easy-to-press feel, then the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, along with a bouncy and frictionless feel, then the KTT Orange linear switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for keyboard feel, sound, and typing style to ensure you choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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