TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. While the Light Cloud V2 is described as mild and easy-to-press, the Vanilla Ice Cream is known for its buttery and resonant feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top housings. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon for its top housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream uses a proprietary KTT blend for its top housing, resulting in a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings of the two switches, a similar trend can be observed. The Light Cloud V2 features nylon for its bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes POK material for its bottom housing, boasting exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material not only offers a clacky sound but also enhances the overall durability and shock resistance of the switch, surpassing the properties of the nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2.
Overall, while the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream differ in terms of their top and bottom housings, both switches aim to provide a unique sound experience to users. The nylon housing of the Light Cloud V2 offers a deeper and rounder sound profile, while the KTT blend housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Similarly, the POK material used in the bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream enhances durability and smoothness, surpassing the properties of the nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the preferred sound profile and durability desired by the user.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 requires 58 grams while the Vanilla Ice Cream only needs 48 grams. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter both in terms of actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, the Light Cloud V2 switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is exactly the same, both measuring at 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel a consistent travel distance before the switch actuates. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get similar results in terms of key press feel and feedback when using either switch. Whether you choose the Light Cloud V2 or the Vanilla Ice Cream, you can expect a smooth and consistent typing experience with a travel distance of 3.5 mm.
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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 linear switch is known for its muted and neutral characteristics, which contribute to a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile that provides a sharp and crisp auditory feedback, setting it apart with a unique and distinctive sound signature. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, users can choose between the more subtle sound of the Light Cloud V2 or the distinct and vibrant sound of the Vanilla Ice Cream.
Moving on to feel, the Light Cloud V2 linear switch is praised for its mild, easy-to-press, and feathery qualities, offering a gentle, effortless, and light typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue and promotes comfortable extended typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Whether users prefer a lighter touch with the Light Cloud V2 or a more luxurious and indulgent feel with the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
In conclusion, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches each bring unique and appealing qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Light Cloud V2 prioritizes a quiet and lightweight typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its high-pitched and creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel, with both options offering a premium and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. Additionally, given the information provided, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and performance from both switches, ensuring a quality typing experience regardless of the chosen option.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a delicate and nuanced typing feel with a medium bottom out force, as well as a muted and neutral sound profile, then the Light Cloud V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a remarkably smooth and creamy typing sensation with a lighter bottom out force, along with a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound signature, then the Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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