TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron New North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, a few key differences emerge. The TTC Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant and bassier sound signature, making each keystroke engaging and unique. With a feathery bottom-out of just 47g, typing on this switch is swift and effortless, appealing to both enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 offers a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, maintaining the frictionless glide and smoothness that users love. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, each has distinct qualities 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing. The Flaming Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the Flaming Purple and the New North Pole V2 offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing choices. The Flaming Purple's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound when compared to the crisper and resonant sound produced by the Gateron switch's polycarbonate bottom housing. The impact of these materials is felt when typing on the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. This balance between top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience of each switch.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron New North Pole V2 plays a significant role in sound output and typing feel. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. The Flaming Purple's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper sound profile, contrasting with the crisper sound of the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in these switches provides a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we find that the Flaming Purple is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, giving it a medium feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Flaming Purple, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we can see that the Flaming Purple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the New North Pole V2's 4 mm. The Flaming Purple offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly deeper keypress, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Flaming Purple being on the shorter end and the New North Pole V2 being slightly longer. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a unique bassier undertone that adds a poppy flair to each keystroke, providing an engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch boasts a crisper sound due to the removal of the rubber dampener, maintaining a smooth and seamless typing experience. While the Flaming Purple leans towards a resonant and slightly bassier sound, the New North Pole V2 provides a cleaner and sharper sound profile for users to enjoy. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct auditory qualities that cater to different preferences, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
As for the feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is lauded for its feathery nature, requiring just 47g of force to bottom out, resulting in a swift and effortless typing experience. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes typing comfortable for extended sessions. Conversely, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and refined typing feel with minimal resistance and smooth key travel. While the Flaming Purple provides a feathery and easy-to-press sensation, the New North Pole V2 delivers a polished and creamy typing experience, ensuring comfort and responsiveness during use.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches both offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Purple stands out with its bassier sound and feathery feel, ideal for those seeking a tactile and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 impresses with its crisper sound and polished, creamy feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation. While each switch offers its own set of qualities, users can expect satisfying results with either option, depending on their desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a lighter actuation force and a feathery, easy-to-press feel with a touch of bassy undertones in sound, the Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force with a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing feel, along with a crisper typing sound, then the New North Pole V2 might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound profile.
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