TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Light Cloud V2 is renowned for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is known for its fast and precise typing capabilities, with a light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the Speed Silver falls under 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different types of users, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the TTC Speed Silver, it is evident that the Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a clear and resonant quality, perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile.
The differences in housing materials between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the TTC Speed Silver offer unique typing experiences for users. While the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 enhances the overall sound profile with its absorbing qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver creates a crisp and clear sound, ideal for those who prefer a sharper typing experience. The nylon bottom housing shared by both switches further contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, emphasizing the depth and fullness of the typing experience regardless of the switch choice.
In terms of design and functionality, the choice between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the TTC Speed Silver ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound and typing feel. The split between nylon and polycarbonate materials in the top housing of the switches allows users to tailor their experience to their liking, whether they prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with the Light Cloud V2 or a sharper and crisper sound profile with the Speed Silver. Both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience, providing options for users to customize their setup according to their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch are quite similar, with both switches having an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Light Cloud V2 has a slightly higher bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. The Light Cloud V2 provides a medium typing experience, while the Speed Silver offers a medium-light feel. Some may prefer the Light Cloud V2 for a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while others may opt for the Speed Silver for a lighter touch. Both switches offer a balanced typing experience suitable for various preferences and needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, the Light Cloud V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. With only a 0.1 mm difference between the two, the Light Cloud V2 can be considered slightly longer than the Speed Silver. However, the difference in travel distance is minimal and may not be noticeable to most users. Ultimately, whether you choose the Light Cloud V2 or the Speed Silver, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall 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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the TTC Speed Silver switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most situations. The Light Cloud V2 offers a more muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the Speed Silver, which also has a neutral sound but may be slightly louder due to its tactile nature. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Light Cloud V2 switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light and effortless typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is also described as mild but with a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience that reduces friction and enhances key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience that can cater to various preferences.
In conclusion, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and TTC Speed Silver switches both have their unique qualities that make them suitable for different typing preferences. The Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a quieter typing experience with its muted sound and feathery feel, ideal for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing experience. Meanwhile, the Speed Silver shines in offering a fast and precise typing experience with its neutral sound and polished feel, appealing to users who value quick actuation and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that guarantees satisfaction for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a delicate and nuanced typing feel with a light actuation force, the Light Cloud V2 may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium actuation force, the Speed Silver might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on whether you prefer a refined and muted typing experience with the Light Cloud V2 or a polished and neutral typing feel with the Speed Silver. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal keyboarding experience.