KTT Grapefruit vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit 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 KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron North Pole V2, both being linear switches. The KTT Grapefruit switches are known for their unique qualities, providing a soft and light typing experience. With a sound profile that can be described as "baritone," these switches deliver a pleasant and not overly deep sound. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer a different tactile experience, described as "gummy." Typing on these switches provides a deep and muted sound, accompanied by a satisfying and chewy typing feel. These switches are categorized as "gummy," "creamy," "subdued," "bouncy," and "polished." However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron North Pole V2 share similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are seeking similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics, both the Grapefruit and the North Pole V2 can meet your needs.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Grapefruit utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience by producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and contributes to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, matching its top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, consistent with the qualities of polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
In summary, both the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron North Pole V2 showcase the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housing, delivering a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile. However, their distinction lies in the bottom housing material. The Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound characteristic of polycarbonate. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches to achieve the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Grapefruit switch is 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch for triggering keystrokes. In contrast, the North Pole V2 requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the North Pole V2 switch may require a slightly stronger push to initiate a keystroke compared to the Grapefruit switch.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Grapefruit switch requires 53 grams of force to fully press down, while the North Pole V2 demands a heavier 65 grams. Here, the North Pole V2 switch again exhibits a higher force requirement, resulting in a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter switch may find the Grapefruit more suitable, as its actuation and bottom out forces are both lower than those of the North Pole V2. This lighter touch can be advantageous for extended typing sessions, making the Grapefruit switch an ideal option for work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, for users seeking a more substantial typing experience, the North Pole V2's heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be the preferred choice.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit and Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Grapefruit offers a lighter touch with medium-light forces, while the North Pole V2 provides a heavier push with medium-heavy forces. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with some favoring lighter switches for longer typing sessions and others enjoying the stronger push of heavier switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, we find that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Consequently, both switches will provide similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing the keys. Therefore, there is no significant difference in the travel distance between the two switches, as they are equal in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Grapefruit switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which means they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This gives it a "baritone" sound profile that is deep but not quite bass. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches have a subdued sound. While not completely silent, they produce a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switches are described as polished. This means they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel make for a pleasant typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches have a gummy feel. Typing on these switches feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, they are also described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. They provide a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with each keystroke. Furthermore, they have a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving you rebound when pressed.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Grapefruit switches are best known for their soft and light feel, along with a baritone sound profile. The Gateron North Pole V2 switches, however, are described as gummy and creamy, offering a unique typing experience with a satisfying chewy feel. In terms of sound, the Grapefruit switches have a low-pitched tone, while the North Pole V2 switches offer a subdued sound. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While they have their own unique qualities, if you prefer a softer and lighter feel with a deep sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switches would be a suitable choice. However, if you enjoy a gummy and creamy typing experience with a more subdued sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches would be a great option. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide their own subjective qualities, allowing for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a soft and light feel, along with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a "baritone" sound profile and are best known for their tarty feel and deep sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a satisfying chewy typing feel and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be more suitable. These switches have a gummy typing feel and produce a deep and muted sound. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whichever switch you choose, both the KTT Grapefruit and Gateron North Pole V2 offer unique typing experiences that are sure to enhance your mechanical keyboard journey.
Mentioned in this article
