KTT Grapefruit vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Grapefruit switches are known for their soft and light feel, accompanied by a unique "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches offer a crisper typing experience, thanks to the removal of a rubber dampener, while still providing the hallmark feature of frictionless typing that the North Pole lineup is known for. The Grapefruit has a categorized sound profile of 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', while the New North Pole V2 is categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless'. However, let's go beyond these general characteristics and explore each switch in more detail, so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 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 15.4mm
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron New North Pole V2, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a consistent sound experience and visual aesthetic from both the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron New North Pole V2.
However, it is in the bottom housing where the two switches differ. While the Grapefruit employs a nylon bottom housing, the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. The use of nylon in the Grapefruit switch creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the New North Pole V2 contributes to the overall clear and resonant sound profile associated with the stiffness of this plastic. The bottom housing also impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, adding another dimension to the tactile experience.
In summary, the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron New North Pole V2 share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles and aesthetic advantages for RGB lighting. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing producing a deeper and fuller sound, while the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound experience. The choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prioritizes a duller and rounder sound or a crisper and sharper sound, as each switch provides a unique tactile and auditory sensation.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Grapefruit switch is lighter, requiring 45 grams of force, compared to the 50 grams needed for the New North Pole V2. However, both switches fall under the category of medium-light actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out forces, the Grapefruit switch requires 53 grams of force to fully depress the key, while the New North Pole V2 switch is heavier at 62.5 grams. This makes the New North Pole V2 a medium-bottom out force switch.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Grapefruit switch since it has a lower actuation and bottom out force. This makes it suitable for long work sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial and heavier push feel would opt for the New North Pole V2 switch, as it provides a stronger typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch differ slightly, with the Grapefruit being lighter overall. However, both switches fall within the medium category, ensuring that users can achieve similar results in terms of typist feedback and performance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, both switches provide a similar experience when pressing down on a key. Therefore, users can expect comparable results when using either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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
The subjective qualities of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 switch are unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both switches share the descriptor of "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the New North Pole V2 has the additional qualities of being "creamy" and "frictionless." Creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, while frictionless switches provide an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, reducing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, while the sound profile of the Grapefruit switch leans towards a low-pitched and mellow tone, the sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 switch are unknown. Both switches provide a polished feel, with the New North Pole V2 offering the added benefits of being creamy and frictionless. It is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used to further shape the sound and feel experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a soft and light feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a medium-light typing experience that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, the Grapefruit switch offers a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener and a frictionless feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it falls within the medium range and provides a satisfying typing experience. The New North Pole V2 switch also offers a polished finish, as well as a creamy and frictionless feel, allowing for effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for key feel and sound profile. Consider your typing style and desired experience to make an informed decision.
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