TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and SP-Star Polaris Gray both offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its refined and silent typing feel, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are favored for their bouncy feel and clean, clacky sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more lively typing experience. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, such as being categorized as 'Mild' and 'Muted' for the Light Cloud V2, and 'Thocky' and 'Polished' for the Polaris Gray, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, providing unique sound profiles for typing enthusiasts. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Gray houses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. The choice between these materials ultimately depends on the desired sound experience during typing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Polaris Gray employ nylon and polycarbonate materials, respectively. The nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2 contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. Meanwhile, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray produces a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the typing experience with clear and resonant tones. These contrasting material choices in the bottom housing further accentuate the distinct sound profiles offered by each keyboard switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and SP-Star Polaris Gray play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While the Light Cloud V2 prioritizes a duller and rounder sound with its nylon housing, the Polaris Gray focuses on delivering a more clear and resonant sound through its polycarbonate construction. Whether users prefer a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper tone, the choice between these two housing materials will impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of the keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, the Light Cloud V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Polaris Gray, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Light Cloud V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Polaris Gray requires more force to press all the way down compared to the Light Cloud V2, making it a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter actuation force for longer periods of typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Light Cloud V2's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Polaris Gray's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a typical travel distance for mechanical switches, so in terms of overall experience, they may provide similar results in terms of keypress feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 offers a muted and neutral sound profile, minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray provides a low-pitched, neutral sound with a thocky characteristic, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed. The choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a quieter typing experience with the Light Cloud V2 or a more satisfyingly rich and deep sound with the Polaris Gray.
Moving on to feel, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Polaris Gray are described as providing a mild and approachable typing experience, suitable for most users. The Light Cloud V2 offers an easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the Polaris Gray also offers a mild typing experience, it is further enhanced by its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a lighter, effortless feel with the Light Cloud V2 or a smoother, polished typing experience with the Polaris Gray.
In conclusion, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a quieter, lightweight typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncier, more polished feel with a bass-heavy sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch would be more suitable. Both switches provide a middle-ground typing experience, catering to a wide range of users from beginners to advanced typists. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch or the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more muted sound profile, the TTC Light Cloud V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier actuation force and a clean, low-pitched, and polished sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch could be the one for you. Both switches excel in offering a smooth and refined typing experience, so it's important to consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and overall feel when making your decision. Ultimately, whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.
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