KTT Hyacinth vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron North Pole V2 are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and experiences. The Hyacinth stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which aims to provide a more comfortable typing experience by avoiding the common hard bottoming-out feeling associated with longer-stem switches. It also deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is best described as gummy, offering a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel. While both switches offer their own advantages, such as the Hyacinth's commitment to tactile feedback and user comfort and the North Pole V2's unique typing experience, it's important to dive deeper beyond these generalities to determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron North Pole V2 share a similarity in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate top housings. Additionally, being translucent, polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Hyacinth and the North Pole V2 will provide similar sound profiles and visual effects when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
Where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Hyacinth opts for nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which shares the same characteristics as the polycarbonate top housing. This means that the bottom housing of the North Pole V2 will contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing.
These differences in bottom housing materials between the Hyacinth and the North Pole V2 will affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth will provide a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the top housing, which is polycarbonate for both switches, will have more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the sound profiles created by their respective bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Hyacinth is 45 grams, slightly lighter than the North Pole V2's 50 grams. This means that the Hyacinth requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth is 56 grams, while the North Pole V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This indicates that the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push to fully press the keys. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth would be a suitable choice, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. However, if a more satisfying and robust typing feel is desired, the North Pole V2's heavier forces would be more suitable. In both cases, users can expect reliable and consistent actuation and bottom out results with their respective switches.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer distance compared to the Hyacinth. The North Pole V2 falls into the more traditional travel distance range, while the Hyacinth is slightly shorter. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the Hyacinth with its shorter travel distance, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial keypress and a deeper feeling, the North Pole V2 may be the better choice with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch is best known for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance. This design decision was made to avoid the hard bottoming-out experience that's common with switches with longer stems. By doing so, the Hyacinth aims to provide an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. The sound of the Hyacinth switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the feel of the Hyacinth switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with gentle resistance. The switch also provides a subtle sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best known for its gummy typing feel. When typing on the North Pole V2, users can expect a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel. The sound of the North Pole V2 switch is described as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy typing experience, similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. This unique sensation provides a bouncy and spring-like feedback when keys are pressed.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile and a silky typing feel with a subtle sound signature, making it suitable for various purposes, whether at home or work. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a subdued sound profile and a gummy typing feel, providing a satisfying and bouncy typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, and the choice between them would depend on individual preferences. However, if you are looking for a smooth typing experience, both switches offer similar results with their smooth and refined finishes.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a unique design choice and a preference for a more consistent force curve, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Hyacinth's 3.5mm travel distance helps avoid a hard bottoming-out experience, while still providing tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Its sound profile is described as neutral, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The Hyacinth also offers a silky typing experience with a subtle resistance, perfect for shared spaces.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a gummy typing feel and a deep, muted sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be the better option. The North Pole V2's bottom out force of 65 grams gives it a satisfying chewy typing feel, while still offering a subdued sound when pressed. This switch provides a unique typing experience, as bottoming out feels like landing on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It offers a creamy and bouncy sensation, thanks to possible factory lubing and specific materials used.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron North Pole V2 depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, design features, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on what you are looking for.
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