TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switches provide a subtle tactile feedback that is gentle and satisfying, with a clean and crispy sound profile. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the Duck switches are labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Duck both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Light Cloud V2 features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Duck also diverge in their material choices. The Light Cloud V2 uses nylon for its bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile akin to its top housing. On the other hand, the Duck incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, leading to a sharper and clearer sound profile compared to its nylon counterpart. Despite these differences, both switches offer a balanced typing experience with a combination of top and bottom housing materials that impact the sound and feel of key presses.
Overall, the choice between the Light Cloud V2 and the SP-Star Duck ultimately boils down to personal preferences in sound profile and typing experience. While the nylon and polycarbonate housing materials offer distinct advantages in sound characteristics, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, the Light Cloud V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Duck, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 58 grams, making them equal in that regard. The Light Cloud V2 offers a medium actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a tactile feel with a similar bottom out force, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Light Cloud V2 offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter, quicker keypress or a longer, more pronounced keypress sensation. Both switches offer unique benefits, so the decision comes down to individual typing preferences.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Light Cloud V2 provides a muted sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional switches. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a clean and crispy sound profile, perfect for those seeking a more subtle tactile typing experience. Both switches fall under a neutral sound profile category, making them suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, providing a light and effortless typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Similarly, the Duck switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a comfortable and responsive feel that is suitable for various tasks such as gaming, school, or work.
In conclusion, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch have their differences in sound and feel, they both excel in providing a refined typing experience for users who appreciate a delicate and nuanced feel. Whether you prefer a muted sound with a lightweight typing feel or a clean sound with a gentle tactile sensation, both switches offer high-quality options that can cater to your typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, but rest assured that you can expect a similar level of quality and satisfaction from either option.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider the typing experience you are seeking. If you prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience with a lightweight feel and muted sound, the Light Cloud V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and clean sound profile, the Duck switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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