TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue stand out as top choices for enthusiasts seeking different typing experiences. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its refined and silent operation, perfect for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced typing feel. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue offers a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying and bouncy typing experience. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as ['Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery'], the Tourmaline Blue is classified as ['Buttery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral']. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
POM
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
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue provide contrasting experiences in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Tourmaline Blue produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The differences in sound profiles between the two housing materials offer users unique typing experiences based on their preferences for sound feedback.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the two switches also exhibit differences in sound profile and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Light Cloud V2 mirrors the qualities of its top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile while maintaining a softer feel. In comparison, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound, complimenting the qualities of the top housing. The combination of different top and bottom housing materials in each switch allows users to experience a range of sound profiles and tactile feedback depending on the specific housing material used in each component.
While the nylon and polycarbonate housing materials of the Light Cloud V2 and the Tourmaline Blue offer distinct sound profiles and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the choice of housing material catering to individual preferences for sound feedback. Whether one prefers the deeper, fuller sound of nylon or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer a high level of durability and performance, ensuring a reliable typing experience regardless of the housing material used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is evident that the Tourmaline Blue is the heavier of the two. The Light Cloud V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a heavier push. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between ease of typing and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, we find that the Light Cloud V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Tourmaline Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may appeal to those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Tourmaline Blue may be more suitable for users who prefer a deeper sensation when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both options offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs.
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means they offer a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various environments without being too loud or obtrusive. The Light Cloud V2 is noted for its muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience, while the Tourmaline Blue offers a deep and thocky sound that enhances the overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Light Cloud V2 is described as mild, easy-to-press, and feathery, providing a gentle and effortless typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is noted for its buttery feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and uniform. Both switches are easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, which can help reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The mild characteristics of both switches make them approachable to a wide range of users, striking a balance between comfort and responsiveness.
Overall, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a nuanced and refined typing feel with its lightweight nature, while the Tourmaline Blue stands out with its bouncy and immersive typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches are accessible and enjoyable options that can enhance your overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a more muted and delicate feel or a thocky and buttery sensation, you can expect similar results in terms of comfort and performance with either of these high-quality linear switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a lightweight and nuanced typing feel with a muted sound, the Light Cloud V2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy feel with a thocky sound profile and a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Tourmaline Blue might be more to your liking. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Choose wisely and enjoy your enhanced typing experience with either of these quality linear switches.
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