TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Akko V3 Silver Pro stand out as top contenders, despite both being linear switches. The Light Cloud V2 impresses with its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a subtle and delicate typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, offering smooth keystrokes and a satisfying sound with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and precise movements. While the Light Cloud V2 leans towards a mild and muted typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro caters to those seeking a creamy and high-pitched feedback. 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
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Light Cloud V2 and Akko V3 Silver Pro both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 features a nylon top housing, which will contribute to a similar sound profile as the bottom housing. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of functionality, both the Light Cloud V2 and Akko V3 Silver Pro benefit from the properties of nylon in their bottom housings. This commonality ensures a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, where they differ is in their top housings - the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing provides a similar sound profile to its bottom housing, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in top housing materials showcases the importance of the different plastics used in creating unique typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Light Cloud V2 and Akko V3 Silver Pro may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon bottom housing, the Light Cloud V2 provides a consistent experience with its nylon top housing, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and more resonant sound, these housing materials play a significant role in shaping your typing experience and allowing for customization based on individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Light Cloud V2 has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 also has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams as opposed to the V3 Silver Pro's lighter 45 grams. This means that the Light Cloud V2 offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the V3 Silver Pro is lighter and requires less force for both actuation and bottom out. Overall, the Light Cloud V2 is the heavier option, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option, perfect for users who want a smoother typing experience for extended periods. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Light Cloud V2 has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro. However, both switches offer similar benefits in terms of quick response times and are suitable for those looking for a shorter travel distance option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for the specific travel distance desired.
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 V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 linear switch is praised for its muted and neutral sound profile, which results in a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, the Light Cloud V2 offers a more subtle and subdued sound, while the V3 Silver Pro provides a more pronounced and noticeable auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance and fatigue on the fingers. This switch allows for effortless and comfortable typing sessions, suitable for various purposes such as gaming, school, or work. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch boasts qualities such as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky. These characteristics contribute to a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel, making each keystroke feel refined and polished.
In conclusion, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a muted and gentle sound profile, coupled with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro stands out for its high-pitched sound and creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on whether you prioritize a quieter, more subtle typing experience (TTC Light Cloud V2) or a more pronounced, smooth, and refined typing feel (Akko V3 Silver Pro).
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a refined and delicate typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance to gain a competitive edge, the V3 Silver Pro would best suit your needs. Additionally, if you prefer a muted and neutral sound profile along with a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery feel, the Light Cloud V2 is the way to go. Conversely, if you enjoy a high-pitched sound profile and seek switches with an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, or silky feel, the V3 Silver Pro is more fitting for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your typing style, preferences, and intended usage to ensure an optimal keyboarding experience.
Mentioned in this article
