TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are two options that stand out for their unique qualities. The Light Cloud V2 is a linear switch that is praised for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron is also a linear switch but is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction. While the Light Cloud V2 offers a mild, muted, and easy-to-press typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes smoothness and sound absorption. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches both incorporate nylon in their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. However, the Light Cloud V2 utilizes nylon in its top housing, providing a similar sound profile to the bottom housing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in top housing materials between the two switches significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° allows for RGB lighting to be more prominently displayed, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. In contrast, the opaque nylon top housing of the TTC Light Cloud V2 may not offer the same level of customization in terms of lighting effects. However, both switches share the use of nylon bottom housings, contributing to a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite their differences in top housing material, both switches ultimately offer a similar typing experience that is enhanced by the properties of nylon in the bottom housing.
The impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience cannot be overstated. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This distinction is evident in the comparison between the Light Cloud V2 and Zero Degree 0° switches, where the use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding the role of each housing material in shaping the sound and feel of a switch is crucial for users looking to customize their typing experience to suit their preferences.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial key press. However, the Light Cloud V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Zero Degree 0°, whose bottom out force is unknown. The Light Cloud V2 is suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier keypress for more tactile feedback, while the Zero Degree 0° may be preferred by users who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Light Cloud V2 the shorter of the two switches by 0.1 mm. The difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance, the Light Cloud V2 may be the preferred choice. However, for those who enjoy a slightly deeper press, the Zero Degree 0° may offer a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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, which means it produces softer and quieter keystrokes compared to traditional mechanical switches while still providing a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0°'s sound profile is unknown, but given its focus on silent typing, it is likely to offer a similar level of noise reduction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the overall keyboard setup used with them.
In terms of feel, the Light Cloud V2 is known for its mild, easy-to-press, and feathery characteristics, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. This switch's light actuation force makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for gaming, schoolwork, or professional tasks. While the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is not specified, its self-padding design and dual-rail structure suggest a focus on smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel, potentially offering a comparable typing experience. Both switches prioritize user comfort and tactile feedback, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience with the Light Cloud V2 or seek innovative design features and smooth keystrokes with the Zero Degree 0°, both switches offer a refined feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and performance.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Light Cloud V2 or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you value a smooth and gentle typing experience with a muted sound, the Light Cloud V2 with its easy-to-press and feathery feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction in a switch, the Zero Degree 0° with its innovative design and dual-rail structure might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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