TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both linear switches offer unique characteristics. The Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant character, providing a bassier sound signature with a touch of poppy undertones that add an engaging flair to typing. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is described as gummy, offering a deep and muted sound profile with a satisfying chewy typing feel. While the Flaming Purple is lauded for its feathery nature and easy-to-press actuation at 47g, the North Pole V2 is praised for its creamy and subdued typing experience. Both switches have their own set of 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making these switches visually appealing as well. Despite this similarity, the Flaming Purple stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. In contrast, the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a clearer and more resonant sound profile.
The differences in bottom housing materials between the Flaming Purple and North Pole V2 lead to variations in sound and feel when the switches are actuated. The nylon bottom housing of the Flaming Purple absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound profile when the keys are pressed. This difference highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound signature of a switch.
While both switches share similarities in their top housing material, the varying bottom housing materials demonstrate how subtle changes can affect the overall typing feel and sound characteristics of a mechanical keyboard switch. The split in housing materials allows each switch to blend the unique qualities of polycarbonate and nylon to create a distinct typing experience. Whether it be the Flaming Purple's deeper sound profile or the North Pole V2's crisper sound, keyboard enthusiasts can choose a switch based on their preference for either a softer, more muted typing experience or a sharper, more resonant sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, the Flaming Purple is lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the North Pole V2 is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Flaming Purple provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the North Pole V2 offers a more substantial typing feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches provide different options for users based on their preference for lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for a more customized typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Flaming Purple offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it preferable for gamers looking for swift reactions. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial key press, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or general use. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences. Thus, choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your keystrokes.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a bassy and resonant typing experience, providing a poppy undertone that adds a unique flair to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch gives off a subdued and muted sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, as the Flaming Purple leans towards a bassier sound while the North Pole V2 offers a more subdued and gummy typing feel.
In terms of feel, the Flaming Purple linear switch stands out for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal exertion and providing a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy and creamy typing feel, mimicking the sensation of bottoming out on a trampoline or gummy bear while also providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to the individual's typing style and preference.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch each offer distinctive sound and feel profiles that cater to different typing preferences. While the Flaming Purple provides a bassier and feathery typing experience, the North Pole V2 offers a more subdued and gummy typing feel. Ultimately, both switches provide satisfying and engaging typing experiences, and choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more resonant sound with easy-to-press keys or a muted sound with a gummy and creamy typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a light and feathery feel with a bassier, resonant sound, the Flaming Purple is the way to go. This switch is perfect for swift and effortless typing, ideal for enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gummy, chewy typing feel with a deeper and muted sound profile, the North Pole V2 is the better option. This switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize the lightness and resonance of the Flaming Purple or the gummy, creamy feel of the North Pole V2. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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