TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Piano mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Light Cloud V2 is popular for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its proprietary material blend that provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a gliding push feel. While the Light Cloud V2 is known for being mild, muted, and easy-to-press, the Piano offers a bassy, frictionless, and silky typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Piano both offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the Light Cloud V2 featuring a nylon top and bottom housing while the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend for both top and bottom. While the exact details of the POM blend used in the Piano are unknown, it is said to provide a uniquely satisfying sound profile, similar to the nylon housing of the Light Cloud V2. Both switches are designed to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
One key difference between the two switches is the material used in their top housing. The Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing is known for its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Durock Piano uses a proprietary POM blend for its top housing that also offers a satisfying and deep sound profile. However, the specific qualities of the POM blend may vary from traditional nylon material, potentially impacting the feel and sound when using the switch.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Durock Piano share the common goal of providing a satisfying typing experience with a deep sound profile. The bottom housing materials of the two switches further contribute to this sound profile, with nylon and POM blend both known for enhancing the overall typing experience. While the specific details of the POM blend in the Piano remain a mystery, users can expect a similar result in terms of sound and feel when compared to the nylon housing of the Light Cloud V2.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. In contrast, the Durock Piano's actuation force is unspecified, but it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Light Cloud V2 is lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Durock Piano. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better option, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial push feel may prefer the Durock Piano for a heavier typing experience. In either case, both switches offer a different tactile feedback that caters to personal preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Light Cloud V2 slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Piano. The difference may seem small, but for some users, even a fraction of a millimeter can make a noticeable impact on typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Light Cloud V2, while others who enjoy a deeper keypress may find the Piano more to their liking. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards and providing a moderate sound suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch offers a bassy sound profile, with deeper and richer tones during key presses. When it comes to feel, the Light Cloud V2 switch is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal effort required to activate the keys. In comparison, the Durock Piano switch is characterized as frictionless and silky, offering an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience with fluid key travel. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Depending on the user's preference for sound and typing experience, they can choose between the more muted and easy-to-press Light Cloud V2 or the bassy and frictionless Durock Piano switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a lightweight and delicate typing experience with a muted and neutral sound profile, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and deeper typing feel with a bassy sound profile and minimal resistance during key presses, the Durock Piano linear switch would be the ideal option for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preference and the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard. Choose wisely based on what feels and sounds best to you during your typing experience.
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