TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Light Cloud V2 is a linear switch, known for its silent operation and refined typing experience. It is a great choice for those who prefer a gentle and nuanced feel while typing, thanks to its lightweight design. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility, making it a perfect option for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. This switch is also characterized by its deep, resonating sound when keys are pressed. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the material used in their top housings. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in materials results in a noticeable variance in the sound produced by each switch, catering to different preferences for sound feedback while typing.
Another point of comparison lies in the bottom housing material of the two switches. The Light Cloud V2 employs nylon in its bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate in its bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch, enhancing the tactile response based on the user's preference for sound and feel.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring differ, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to varied preferences. The softer nylon material used in the Light Cloud V2 creates a duller and rounder sound, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate material in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a clearer and more resonant sound. Despite the difference in materials, both switches provide distinct typing experiences that can be customized based on individual preferences for sound feedback and tactile response.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Light Cloud V2 is lighter in both aspects. The Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Light Cloud V2 requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press down compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for the heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Aflion switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC switch. In terms of key feel, the shorter travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may result in a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may provide a more satisfying keypress feel for those who prefer a deeper actuation. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences, with the Light Cloud V2 offering a shorter travel distance and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring providing a slightly longer travel distance for a different typing experience.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Light Cloud V2 offers a muted and neutral experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that is suitable for various environments. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, crisp, and percussive, making it more noticeable and distinctive. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, users can choose between a softer, more understated sound with the Light Cloud V2 or a louder, more striking sound with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
In terms of feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 presents a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience, offering a gentle resistance and effortless typing with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch delivers a sharper, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience with its distinct and lively feel. Those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback with a bounce and snap in each keypress may prefer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, while users looking for a lighter, smoother typing feel may opt for the Light Cloud V2.
Overall, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Cloud V2 provides a quieter, softer sound and a lighter, smoother typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a more delicate and nuanced typing experience. In comparison, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a louder, more distinctive sound and a sharper, more tactile feel with a vibrant and lively feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can select between these two switches to achieve their desired result in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a silent and lightweight typing feel with a muted sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you value a medium-high level of tactility with a sharper and more pronounced sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a gentle and nuanced typing experience or a more tactile and impactful one. Consider your typing preferences and needs to make the best choice between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
