TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Tom stand out as popular options, each offering unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Light Cloud V2, a linear switch, is praised for its silent operation and refined feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom, a tactile switch, may not have a specific reputation but is known for its tactile feedback. This makes it a good option for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile bump while typing. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Tom, one key difference is in the material used for the top housing. The Light Cloud V2 features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tom utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material leads to a distinct sound experience for each switch, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Tom utilize nylon. Nylon is favored for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as well as its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to bottoming out the keys. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile across both switches, regardless of the differences in top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While the Light Cloud V2's nylon housing produces a duller and rounder sound, the Tom's polycarbonate housing creates a clearer and resonant sound profile. By utilizing different materials for the top housing, each switch caters to unique preferences in typing sound and feel. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent and familiar typing experience across both switches, especially in terms of bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that the Light Cloud V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Tom's 55 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 is also lighter at 58 grams compared to the Tom's unknown force. This means that the Light Cloud V2 provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom offers a heavier actuation force for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly longer travel distance than the Tom. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quick and responsive keystrokes, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Light Cloud V2 providing a bit more depth compared to the Tom. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Tom 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 praised for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to clacky switches. This makes it an ideal choice for users looking for a more discreet and less disruptive typing sound. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unknown, so it's difficult to compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Light Cloud V2 switch is often described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and enhances the overall typing comfort, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unknown, so it's challenging to draw a direct comparison. If the Tom switch offers a similar light and easy-to-press feel, users can expect a comfortable typing experience similar to that of the Light Cloud V2.
Considering the available information, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch excels in providing a muted and easy-to-press typing experience, making it a top choice for users seeking a quiet and effortless keyboard switch. While the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Tom tactile switch remain unknown, if they align with the qualities of the Light Cloud V2, users can expect comparable results in terms of typing comfort and sound level. Ultimately, the best switch for an individual will depend on their personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a refined, lightweight, and silent typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 is a great choice. Its muted sound, mild feel, and easy-to-press nature make it ideal for those who prioritize a delicate and nuanced typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force and are willing to sacrifice information on sound and feel for other features that the Outemu Tom may offer, then that may be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what aspects of a mechanical keyboard switch are most important to you.
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