TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch can be quite intriguing. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its quiet operation and refined typing feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a light to medium amount of tactility, producing a distinctive bottom-out sound and a satisfying top-out sound. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the Red Panda falls into the categories of 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Red Panda switches offer contrasting characteristics. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate. While both materials contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience, the different properties of nylon and polycarbonate yield distinct auditory outcomes.
Despite the differences in material composition, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Red Panda switches aim to ensure a satisfying typing experience. The use of nylon in the Light Cloud V2 provides a duller and rounder sound profile, creating a unique typing sensation. Similarly, the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound profile that enhances the overall tactile feedback of the switches. While the sound characteristics may vary between the two switches, the designers have utilized the properties of nylon and polycarbonate to optimize sound quality and typing performance.
The incorporation of different housing materials in the Light Cloud V2 and the Outemu Red Panda switches allows for a diversity of sound profiles and tactile feedback. The split between the bottom and top housing materials in a switch directly influences the typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. Whether it is the softer nature of nylon in the Light Cloud V2 or the stiffer polycarbonate in the Red Panda, each material choice plays a vital role in shaping the overall sound profile and typing sensation of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium range of force requirements. The Light Cloud V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 requires 58 grams, while the Red Panda needs 60 grams. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience without being too light or too heavy. Those who prefer a slightly lighter touch may lean towards the Light Cloud V2, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Outemu Red Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see that the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Red Panda's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular in keyboards today. Gamers may appreciate the quicker response time offered by a shorter travel distance, making the Light Cloud V2 a favorable option in this aspect. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Outemu Red Panda for its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, while the difference in travel distance between the two switches may be minimal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when deciding which one to choose for your keyboard.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
When comparing the sound of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we find that the Light Cloud V2 has a muted and neutral sound profile, making it a quieter option suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Red Panda produces a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Light Cloud V2 leaning towards a softer and more neutral sound, while the Red Panda provides a more pronounced and bassier tone.
In terms of feel, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Red Panda are described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle sensation when pressed. The Light Cloud V2 is known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similarly, the Red Panda is noted for its mild and approachable qualities, offering a comfortable typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Overall, both switches aim to provide a smooth and effortless typing feel, catering to users who prefer a gentle touch when typing.
In conclusion, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Light Cloud V2 is praised for its muted and neutral sound, along with its easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Red Panda stands out for its thocky sound and mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired keyboarding experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasant and ergonomic typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy a smooth and satisfying feel with each keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a refined and delicate typing experience with a silent and lightweight feel, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Red Panda could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a muted and easy-to-press switch like the Light Cloud V2 or a thocky switch with a mild feel like the Red Panda. Evaluate your typing style and sound preferences to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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