KTT Darling vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and the Gateron North Pole V2 are two highly sought-after linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering a unique typing experience. The Darling stands out with its chewy and substantial typing sensation, which is enhanced by a bouncy and springy responsiveness to keystrokes. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is described as gummy, providing a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfyingly chewy feel. While the Darling is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out, the North Pole V2 offers a creamy and polished typing experience. If you prefer a more clacky and resonant feel, the Darling may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a subdued and gummy typing experience, the North Pole V2 could be the perfect choice. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gateron North Pole V2 differ in terms of their bottom housing. The Darling utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, polycarbonate is stiffer and leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This means that typing on the Darling may result in a duller and rounder sound compared to the North Pole V2, which may offer a clearer and more resonant typing experience.
Both the KTT Darling and the Gateron North Pole V2 share a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is often used for clear housings, especially when RGB lighting is involved. Therefore, both switches are likely to provide a similar sound profile when it comes to the top housing, as they both utilize polycarbonate for this component.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Darling and the Gateron North Pole V2 impacts the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the Darling's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This means that the Darling may offer a more rounded typing experience, while the North Pole V2 may provide a clearer and more resonant sound when typing. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall feel and sound of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams, making the Darling more sensitive to key presses. However, the Darling also has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the North Pole V2's heavier 65 grams, indicating that the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Darling may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more solid and substantial feel may opt for the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's 3.5 mm distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter distances are preferred for quick key presses. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's 4 mm travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Both switches offer different travel distances that cater to different preferences, with the Darling being the shorter option and the North Pole V2 being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
The Gateron 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 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a unique experience with its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, providing users with a crisp and engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch produces a more subdued sound, offering a quieter and more subtle typing experience. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the vibrant and lively sound of the Darling or the mellow and understated sound of the North Pole V2.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling switch is renowned for its bouncy tactile sensation, giving users a springy and responsive typing experience with a satisfying rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a gummy feel, described as akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, offering a unique and cushioned typing experience. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch also has creamy and polished properties, providing a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on whether users prefer a lively and bouncy feel or a cushioned and smooth feel, they can opt for the Darling or the North Pole V2 switch, respectively.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Darling excels in providing a clacky and resonant sound, coupled with a bouncy tactile feel, while the North Pole V2 offers a subdued sound with a gummy, creamy, and polished feel. Whether users seek a more engaging and tactile typing experience with the Darling or a cushioned and smooth typing experience with the North Pole V2, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the KTT Darling if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with bouncy and springy responsiveness. The Darling also offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile for an engaging feedback experience. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron North Pole V2 if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gummy, creamy typing feel with a subdued sound profile. The North Pole V2 provides a unique experience resembling bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, along with a smooth and buttery key travel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for key feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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