KTT Glimp vs. Gateron North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Glimp and the Gateron North Pole V2. The Glimp is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial but not overwhelming typing experience. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, it offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is also a linear switch but is best described as gummy. Typing on it provides a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy typing feel. Both switches offer a creamy and smooth typing experience, but they differ in terms of sound and overall typing 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

KTT Glimp Linear

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Glimp and Gateron North Pole V2 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, whether you opt for the Glimp or the North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual customization.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ in material. The Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the bottom-out sound. Ultimately, the choice between the Glimp and the North Pole V2 will depend on your preference for either a deeper and fuller sound (Glimp) or a sharper and crisper sound (North Pole V2) during typing.

In terms of typing experience, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. Pressing down on a switch will primarily elicit the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Consequently, the Glimp's nylon bottom housing will provide a softer and more cushioned typing experience compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing, which will offer a more rigid and firm sensation. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be predominantly influenced by the top housing. As both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they will produce a similar sound profile upon key release. Therefore, users can expect consistent sound characteristics when using either the Glimp or the North Pole V2.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Glimp. Similarly, the Glimp has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the North Pole V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that typing on the Glimp switch will require less force and provide a lighter touch, which may be desirable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the Glimp switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, providing a more effortless typing experience, while the North Pole V2 switch is heavier in both aspects, offering a more pronounced and tactile keystroke.

Travel distance

The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches provide a consistent and tactile experience with a short distance of travel. Pressing down on the keys, users will feel a uniform and satisfying feedback regardless of whether they choose the Glimp or the North Pole V2. Therefore, when it comes to travel distance, both switches offer the same result.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Glimp switch is best described as "clacky." This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch is described as having a "subdued" sound. While not completely silent, it offers a more dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Glimp switch is often referred to as "creamy." This indicates a smooth and buttery typing experience, which can be attributed to factors such as lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. When typing on a Glimp switch, you can expect a silky sensation, as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Glimp switch is described as having a "mild" feel. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users.

Similarly, the North Pole V2 switch is also described as "creamy," offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Like the Glimp switch, this can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch is described as "gummy," providing a unique typing experience that feels like bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It is also noted as being "bouncy," giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when pressed. Lastly, the North Pole V2 switch is described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Glimp and North Pole V2 switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Glimp switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy feel, offering a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch offers a subdued sound and a gummy, bouncy, and polished feel, providing a delightful and unique typing experience. Both switches have a creamy feel in common, ensuring a smooth and buttery typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a satisfying typing experience and a fairly clacky sound profile, the KTT Glimp switch is the ideal choice for you. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, it strikes the perfect balance between resistance and ease of use. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deep and muted sound profile, along with a chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is the one to go for. It offers a gummy sensation when bottoming out and has a unique sound signature that is more subdued compared to most switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel during typing sessions.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more