TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron North Pole V2. The Gold Brown switch is often praised for its balance, offering a slight yet satisfying bump when typing, along with a moderate weightiness. It also has a softer sound profile compared to most switches, although it is not completely silent. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch is best described as gummy, providing a deep and muted sound profile, and a chewy typing feel. While both switches have their unique qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron North Pole V2, it's clear that they both 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 is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light distribution. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when it comes to the top housings of these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Gold Brown employs nylon while the North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate. This difference leads to distinct sound profiles. Typing on the Gold Brown, with its nylon bottom housing, elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the respective bottom housing become evident. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound produced when letting go of a key. Therefore, while the top housings of both switches deliver similar results, the variation in bottom housing materials leads to distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the similarities lie in the choice of polycarbonate for the top housings of both the Gold Brown and the North Pole V2, resulting in sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles, as well as compatibility with RGB lighting. However, their differences arise in the bottom housings, with the Gold Brown using nylon for a deeper and fuller sound, while the North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for a sharper and more resonant sound. The varying bottom housing materials contribute to differences in the bottom-out sound and feel, highlighting the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams of force while the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range, but the North Pole V2 can be considered slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the North Pole V2 as it allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for work keyboards or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gold Brown's slightly higher actuation force. In terms of bottoming out, both switches offer a similar experience, as their forces fall within a relatively small range. Therefore, if one is seeking a similar result in terms of bottoming out, both the Gold Brown and North Pole V2 will provide a comparable experience.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. Whether you choose the Gold Brown or the North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Gold Brown is known for its balanced profile. It has a slight bump that provides a satisfying tactile feedback, but it is not too pronounced. The sound produced by these switches is generally softer compared to most switches, giving it a rounded and more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 offers a deep and muted sound profile. It is described as gummy, which means that when typing on them, you can expect a chewy and dampened sound. While the Gold Brown leans towards a more neutral sound, the North Pole V2 provides a more subtle and gummy typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown offers a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, providing a gentle typing feel that most users will find comfortable. It is described as buttery, implying a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. The Gold Brown also has accented characteristics, offering a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is described as gummy and creamy. Typing on these switches feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, providing a unique and elastic feedback sensation. The North Pole V2 also has a polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
Considering the available information, the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron North Pole V2 provide different qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a more balanced sound and a slight tactile bump, along with a buttery and polished feel, the Gold Brown would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and more muted sound profile, accompanied by a gummy and creamy typing feel with an elastic feedback sensation, the North Pole V2 would be a better fit. Both switches offer polished finishes, resulting in smooth key travel. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of these switches may also be influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps. Ultimately, it's recommended to try out both switches to determine which one suits your preferences better.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced and versatile switch, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice. With its moderate bottom out force of 63 grams, it offers a satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. The rounded sound profile is softer than most switches without being completely silent. In terms of sound, the Gold Brown provides a neutral and moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, it offers a mild, buttery, accented, and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users.
On the other hand, if you crave a unique typing experience, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch could be the switch for you. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a gummy sensation and a deep and muted sound profile. In terms of sound, the North Pole V2 produces a subdued and dampened sound when pressed. In terms of feel, it provides a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with a spring-like or elastic feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a balanced and versatile switch with a moderate weight and a softer sound profile, the Gold Brown would be a great fit. However, if you're looking for a unique and satisfying typing experience with a deeper and more muted sound, the North Pole V2 might be the switch for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and the desired sound and feel, and you'll be able to make an informed decision. In the end, both switches offer their own unique qualities that will enhance your keyboarding experience.
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