TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both switches offer a unique typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 is ideal for those who prefer a silent switch with a refined and delicate feel, making it perfect for users who enjoy a lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 is known for its crisp typing experience and frictionless feel, despite the absence of a rubber dampener. Gateron has managed to maintain the smoothness and glide that users love while providing a polished and creamy feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
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 15.4mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 provide distinct sound profiles due to their different properties. The Light Cloud V2's nylon top and bottom housing absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The nylon housing of the Light Cloud V2 offers a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 produces a clearer and resonant sound.
The aesthetic differences between the two switches are also noteworthy. The Light Cloud V2's nylon housing provides a classic look and feel, while the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate housing offers a modern and sleek appearance, especially when used with RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced lighting effects, making it a popular choice for keyboards with customizable RGB lighting. On the other hand, the opaque nylon housing of the Light Cloud V2 gives a more traditional and muted look.
Overall, while the Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and visual appeal. Both switches are capable of providing a satisfying typing experience, but the distinct properties of their housing materials may cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we can see that the Light Cloud V2 is lighter in both aspects. The Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, but the Light Cloud V2 requires slightly less force for both actuation and bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the New North Pole V2 could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, the Light Cloud V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Light Cloud V2 offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both options offer variations in travel distance that cater to different preferences, with the Light Cloud V2 being the shorter of the two.
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 New North Pole 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 New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 typing experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2's sound qualities are unknown. However, both switches may provide a pleasant sound profile depending on the keyboard and keycap combination used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 switch is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, offering a gentle and effortless typing experience with minimal force required for key presses. In comparison, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience with different approaches to achieving it.
Overall, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Light Cloud V2 may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a lightweight touch, the New North Pole V2 may attract users looking for a crisper feel with smooth and buttery keypresses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, but both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience with their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following: if you prioritize a lighter typing experience with a more nuanced feel and a muted sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing feel with a polished, frictionless sensation and a slightly higher bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal typing style and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch. Make your decision based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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