HMX Cheese vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices that stand out are the HMX Cheese and the TTC Light Cloud V2. The HMX Cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is favored for its silent operation and refined typing feel. This switch is lightweight and offers a delicate and nuanced typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet and comfortable typing experience. While these switches may seem similar at first glance, they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and the TTC Light Cloud V2 feature nylon top and bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound when typing on switches. The use of nylon in both switches provides a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, the HMX Cheese and TTC Light Cloud V2 may differ in the specific design and construction of their top and bottom housings. While both switches are likely to offer a similar depth and fullness in sound, the impact of the housing materials on both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key, may vary between the two switches. This subtle difference in the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings could result in a slightly different typing experience for users of the Cheese and Light Cloud V2 switches.
Overall, the choice of nylon material for the housings of the HMX Cheese and TTC Light Cloud V2 switches enhances the typing experience by providing a softer and more absorbent surface that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the specific design and construction of the housings may vary between the two switches, the similarities in their use of nylon ensure that users can expect a consistent typing experience with both the Cheese and Light Cloud V2 switches. Whether pressing down on a key or releasing it, the nylon housings of these switches are likely to deliver a satisfying sound and tactile feel for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese has a lighter touch overall. The actuation force of the Cheese is 43 grams, slightly lighter than the Light Cloud V2's 45 grams. Additionally, the bottom-out force of the Cheese is 46 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 requires 58 grams to bottom out. This makes the Cheese a lighter option overall in terms of typing experience. Some users may prefer the Cheese for its lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom-out force, catering to users who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom-out forces.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. With identical travel distances, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience when using either switch. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the HMX Cheese and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $4.29.
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.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, providing a unique typing experience that is lighter than the majority of switches on the market. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as having a muted sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer and quieter typing experience. The decision between these two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound, with the Cheese offering a more pronounced and lively typing sound, while the Light Cloud V2 provides a more subdued and neutral typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, promising a delicate and nuanced feel with each key press. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch are not provided in the given information. However, based on its reputation as a preferred silent switch, we can infer that the Light Cloud V2 likely offers a gentle and easy-to-press typing experience, making it a comfortable and low-impact choice for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Cheese stands out for its lively and crisp sound profile, as well as its smooth and pristine typing feel, while the Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a quieter and more neutral typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience. However, regardless of your choice, both switches promise to deliver a high-quality typing experience that will meet your needs effectively.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams for a smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 58 grams for a refined and silent typing experience with a muted sound profile and a gentle, easy-to-press feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preference and the qualities that best suit your needs.
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