TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Silent Grey stand out as popular options. The Light Cloud V2, a linear switch, is praised for its refined and silent typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced feel while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey, a tactile switch, offers a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a noticeable bump and smooth keystrokes, perfect for those seeking a satisfying and silent feel. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater 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
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Silent Grey, we can see that the Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Silent Grey features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the Light Cloud V2 creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Grey produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition which enhances clarity and resonance. While the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the distinction in their top housing materials gives each switch its unique sound characteristics.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Light Cloud V2 and the Silent Grey, they ultimately provide similar results when it comes to typing experience. Both switches benefit from the softer nature of nylon in their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. However, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound output when releasing a key, with the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Grey offering a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the duller and rounder sound of the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2. Overall, while the specific housing materials may vary, both switches excel in providing a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing materials also influences the appearance of the switches. The transparent nature of polycarbonate used in the Silent Grey's top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the switch. In comparison, the opaque nature of nylon used in the Light Cloud V2 may not have the same visual impact when it comes to RGB lighting. Additionally, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the characteristics of each material contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile, typing experience, and aesthetic appeal of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. The Light Cloud V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Grey's 50 grams, making the Light Cloud V2 more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 requires 58 grams, while the Silent Grey requires 65 grams, indicating that the Silent Grey provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer. Overall, both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Light Cloud V2 allows for a slightly faster response time compared to the Silent Grey. Gamers who prioritize quick key presses may prefer the Light Cloud V2 for this reason. On the other hand, the Silent Grey provides a bit more depth and a more traditional feel due to its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Light Cloud V2 being shorter and the Silent Grey being longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the typing experience that the user is seeking.
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 Outemu Silent Grey comes in at $3.10 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
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. This makes it ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch lacks a specific sound description, but given its silent characteristic, it can be assumed to also offer a quiet typing experience. Both switches can provide a neutral sound profile suitable for various settings, whether in a professional workspace or a shared living environment.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery. These qualities indicate that the switch offers a gentle and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing overall comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch does not have a specific feel description provided. However, given its tactile nature, it can be inferred that the switch offers a satisfying bump with a smooth keystroke, providing a tactile feedback that many users find enjoyable.
In summary, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a muted sound profile and a gentle, easy-to-press typing experience, ideal for those seeking a refined and comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a quiet typing experience with a pronounced tactile feedback, catering to users who enjoy a satisfying keypress. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a premium typing experience with their unique characteristics. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience or a more pronounced tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a delicate and nuanced typing experience with a lightweight feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a silent and refined typing experience (Light Cloud V2) or a quiet and tactile experience (Silent Grey). Consider your personal preferences and typing style to determine which switch would best suit your needs.
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