TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Akko Rosewood both present intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience but cater to different preferences among users. The Light Cloud V2 is celebrated for its lightweight design and refined typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a mild and delicate touch with each keystroke. Its silent operation enhances productivity in noise-sensitive environments, appealing to users who prioritize quietness. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switches deliver a deep, satisfying thocky sound that engages typists with an auditory feedback that many find rewarding. This touch of acoustic depth is complemented by a factory-applied lubricant, enhancing the smoothness of every press. While both switches offer a linear feel, the distinct typing experiences they provide might influence your selection based on 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
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Akko Rosewood both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, contributing to their acoustic profiles and overall typing experience. Nylon, known for being a classic switch housing material, offers a unique combination of softness and sound absorption. Consequently, both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the nylon's softer texture effectively reduces high-frequency sounds. This shared material choice means that users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound, regardless of the switch being used.
While the Light Cloud V2 and the Rosewood share identical housing materials, the experience can still be influenced by differences in their overall design and manufacturing attributes. For instance, even minor variations in housing shape and internal structure could lead to differences in the sound signature or feel during actuation. However, since both switches utilize nylon, the impact of these variations might be less pronounced compared to switches made from different materials. Users may find that while the keys may have a slightly different tactile feedback or sound depth due to these nuances, the core characteristics of softness and sound absorption derived from the nylon remain consistent.
The distinct roles of the top and bottom housings add another layer of complexity in understanding the typing experience for these switches. The bottom housing typically governs the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences how the sound resonates when the key is released. Given that both the Light Cloud V2 and the Akko Rosewood are crafted from nylon for both parts, users can expect a cohesive auditory and tactile experience regardless of which switch they choose. This uniformity in materials ensures that those seeking a plush and muted typing experience would appreciate both options for their sound profiles and overall feel.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 and Akko Rosewood linear switches present a notable comparison in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among users. The Light Cloud V2 features a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium-weight switch that caters to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood offers a lighter actuation force at 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to typists seeking a more effortless keypress, which can be beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming. While both switches have distinct bottom out forces, the differences make the Rosewood the lighter option, whereas the Light Cloud V2 will provide a denser feel during use. Thus, for users who prefer a softer touch, the Akko Rosewood is an apt choice, while those who favor a firmer resistance should opt for the TTC Light Cloud V2.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Akko Rosewood linear switches reveals a notable difference between the two. The Light Cloud V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Rosewood extends to 4.0 mm. This makes the TTC Light Cloud V2 the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel, often favored by gamers for quicker actuation. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood, with its longer travel distance, offers a deeper experience that some users may find more satisfying, providing a more substantial tactile feedback. If you are in search of rapid response times, the shorter 3.5 mm travel of the Light Cloud V2 would suit your needs better, whereas for those who appreciate a heartier depth in their keystrokes, the Rosewood’s 4.0 mm travel would be the preferable choice.
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 Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 characterized by a neutral profile, striking a balance that is suitable for a variety of environments. This means that it won’t draw unnecessary attention in a shared space, making it accessible for both newcomers and seasoned typists. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switch produces a deep, thocky sound, enhanced by a factory-applied lubricant, which adds a richness to each keystroke. The sound profile of the Rosewood is likely to provide a more satisfying auditory feedback than the Light Cloud V2, appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced acoustic sensation while typing. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound can vary based on the keyboard’s build and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is designed for a mild, easy-to-press experience that requires minimal effort. The lightweight actuation does wonders for reducing finger fatigue and allows for an effortless typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged use. It’s notable for its feathery touch, giving users a responsive typing sensation without the burden of excessive force, making it particularly comfortable for various scenarios, including gaming and office work. The feel characteristics of the Akko Rosewood switch, however, are unknown, leaving a gap in comparison. Given its more pronounced sound profile, one might speculate that the Rosewood might provide a more tactile response, but without explicit details, one can’t draw a direct comparison.
In conclusion, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Akko Rosewood switches present different auditory experiences while sharing a focus on user comfort and ease of use in their respective realms. The Light Cloud V2 excels in a neutral sound footprint and a light, gentle feel, making it highly approachable for beginners. Meanwhile, the Rosewood appeals to enthusiasts looking for deeper sound feedback straight from the box. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would stem from the user's preference for sound and tactile feedback; those who favor a subtle and quiet switch will find the Light Cloud V2 appealing, while those drawn to more resonant, satisfying sounds may prefer the Rosewood.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Akko Rosewood linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and excels in a silent environment, the Light Cloud V2 is an excellent choice. Its mild and feathery characteristics make it ideal for long typing sessions, providing a refined and gentle feel that reduces finger fatigue, which is perfect for tasks that require extensive input, like writing or coding. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and appreciate auditory feedback, you should lean towards the Rosewood. Its deep, thocky sound along with a smooth typing experience makes it great for a satisfying acoustical response, perfect for both gaming and casual typing. Therefore, consider how you plan to use your keyboard; if sound and feel take precedence, the Rosewood will serve you well, while the Light Cloud V2 stands out for silent and prolonged typing tasks.
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