TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro stands out for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy and creamy typing feel, along with a deep and muted sound profile that offers a satisfying experience. Each switch is categorized with distinctive characteristics such as 'Polished' and 'Thocky' for the Gold Red Pro, and 'Gummy' and 'Creamy' for the North Pole V2. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your specific typing preferences and requirements. 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2, we see that both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a crisper typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, the Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Gold Red Pro and the North Pole V2 significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contributes to a sharper and crisper sound experience. This contrast highlights how diverse housing materials can affect the typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a vital role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing's impact on sound when releasing a key is more pronounced with polycarbonate in both switches, offering a consistent high-pitched and resonant sound profile.
Ultimately, while the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the bottom housing significantly alters the overall sound profile of the switches, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to polycarbonate's sharper and crisper sound. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, allowing users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferred sound and feel preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the North Pole V2 is heavier in both aspects. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the North Pole V2 requires 50 grams to actuate a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro's force is unknown, compared to the North Pole V2's 65 grams, which falls on the medium-heavy side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a heavier push. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the North Pole V2 offering a more robust typing experience compared to the Gold Red Pro.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Red Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the North Pole V2. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the North Pole V2 being slightly on the longer side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the level of keypress depth and responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is often described as thocky and low-pitched, providing a deep and rich sound profile that is both satisfying and mellow. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a more subdued sound, with a dampened and subtle sound signature that is less pronounced compared to most switches. Both switches offer unique sound experiences, catering to different preferences in auditory feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is often associated with polished, silky, mild, and subtle characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and a light typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its gummy and creamy feel, providing a unique typing experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, with a smooth and buttery sensation that makes typing effortless. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying tactile experience, albeit through different tactile profiles.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red Pro provides a thocky sound and a polished, silky feel, the North Pole V2 offers a subdued sound and a gummy, creamy typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent options for those seeking a linear switch with unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deep and muted sound profile that provides a satisfying and gummy typing feel, then the North Pole V2 could be the ideal choice. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that resonates with you the most.
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