TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Huano Sakura presents an interesting comparison of tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The TTC Light Cloud V2 is celebrated for its supreme refinement and gentle keystroke, making it a top pick for users who prioritize a quiet and delicate typing experience. With characteristics like being mild, muted, and easy to press, it's perfect for those who spend long hours at the keyboard without desiring a loud or aggressive feedback. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch also offers a feather-light touch but combines it with medium acoustics, making it suitable for users who enjoy a slightly more pronounced sound while still valuing comfort during extended typing sessions. Each switch has its own unique appeal—whether it's the silent sophistication of the Light Cloud V2 or the balanced feedback of the Sakura. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Huano Sakura, both switches feature unique characteristics that contribute to their overall performance and sound profile. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for its softer, more durable nature. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound when typing. This tactile experience is complemented by the switch's overall feel, which is designed to provide a rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs a POK material for its top housing, which is different from the nylon used in the Light Cloud V2. POK, or polyketone, is notable for its smoothness and durability, offering a sound that is described as clacky while maintaining a robust performance over time.
While the top housing of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Huano Sakura differs—nylon versus POK—the bottom housing of both switches remains consistent, as they are both made of nylon. This shared property means that both switches will deliver a similar underkey feel and contribute to the overall bottom-out sound profile. The nylon bottom provides a substantial degree of sound absorption, which contributes to that characteristic deep sound when keys are pressed down. In both switches, the housing materials work in tandem; with the nylon serving to create a fuller sound profile irrespective of the variations in the top housing.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the two switches points to how users might experience different nuances while typing. The POK material in the Huano Sakura enhances the smoothness and clackiness of the key, while the nylon of the Light Cloud V2 ensures a more muted response. However, as the bottom housings are both made from nylon, users can expect a consistent base for that deep sound profile, leading to a shared tactile experience when pressing down on either switch. The differences, therefore, lie in the sound and tactile response when keys are released, with the POK offering a sharper sound contrast compared to the softer, rounded sound of the nylon top in the Light Cloud V2.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Huano Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch. Consequently, the Sakura switch is the lighter option, which can enhance typing comfort during prolonged sessions, while the heavier Light Cloud V2 may appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel with its stronger push. Overall, these differences indicate that typists and gamers will have varying experiences based on their preference for actuation and bottom out force when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Sakura linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This 0.1 mm difference means that the Sakura switch offers a marginally deeper press compared to the Light Cloud V2, which could be favored by users who appreciate a more substantial key feel during typing or gaming. Conversely, for those who seek a quicker response time and prefer a less abrupt feel, the shorter travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences; choosing between them hinges on whether one values a more responsive keystroke or a fuller key depth.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 excels as a muted switch, producing a softer and quieter acoustic profile compared to the more traditional or clacky mechanical switches. This makes it an ideal option for users looking to minimize noise in shared environments, and its neutral characteristics suggest it could perform well in diverse settings, whether at home or work. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch has not been specified in terms of its sound profile. However, it does offer medium acoustics, which might place it at a slightly louder level than the more muted Light Cloud V2. Overall, while both switches can cater to users who prefer quieter operation, the Light Cloud V2 distinctly emphasizes subdued sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is lauded for its mild, easy-to-press action, giving it a very gentle tactile response. This switch is exceptionally feather-light, requiring minimal force to activate, which significantly enhances comfort during prolonged typing sessions by reducing finger fatigue. On the contrary, the feel characteristics of the Huano Sakura switch are not specified, but its feather-light touch hints at a similarly low actuation force that can also offer a comfortable typing experience. Thus, while the specific tactile sensations of the Sakura remain unclear, it appears that both switches aim to provide a lightweight and effortless feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Huano Sakura linear switches cater to users seeking a quieter and more comfortable typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 stands out with its muted sound and very mild, easy-to-press feel, ideal for long usage periods without taxing the fingers. While the Sakura switch is characterized as feather-light, providing an accessible typing experience, its specific sound and tactile feedback details remain unknown. Users can expect a similarly refined typing experience from either switch, but for those prioritizing quietness, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is the notable choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Huano Sakura linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use them. If you find that a medium actuation force of 58 grams combines well with a refined, muted typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 is an excellent option, especially for quieter settings or if you appreciate a more controlled and delicate touch. Its design allows for a mild feel that promotes comfort and reduces finger fatigue, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or professional environments where noise is a consideration. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Huano Sakura switch offers a feather-light experience, ideal for rapid keystrokes and extended gaming or typing without tiring your fingers. This switch's medium acoustics strike a balance, making it versatile for various uses while providing a satisfying auditory feedback that some users might enjoy. Therefore, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a quieter, more refined typing experience or a lighter, faster switch that encourages high-speed input with less effort.
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