KTT Lightning vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and the Gateron New North Pole V2 are two top contenders. Both switches offer a linear typing experience, which means there is no tactile bump or audible click when pressing the keys. However, they differ in some key aspects. The KTT Lightnings are renowned for their speed, making them a popular choice for gamers who need lightning-fast response times. These switches provide a sleek typing feel and emit a clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches have done away with a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience. Despite this change, they still offer the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup: a frictionless typing feel. Gateron has maintained the seamless glide and smoothness that users have come to love. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so it ultimately boils down to personal preference. However, let's explore these switches further to help you make an informed decision about which one is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Gateron New North Pole V2, specifically their polycarbonate top housings, offer similar qualities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is a result of polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, promoting a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and visual effects when using either the Lightning or the New North Pole V2 switches.
However, one notable difference lies in the housing materials of the switches' bottom housings. The Lightning employs a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its top housing material. As such, the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate extends to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This disparity in bottom housing materials provides a distinction in typing experience between the two switches.
To summarize, while the top housings of the KTT Lightning and the Gateron New North Pole V2 share similar characteristics as a result of both being made of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differ. The nylon bottom housing of the Lightning elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with the top housing. Therefore, users can expect slight variations in sound and typing experience depending on the switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are notable differences. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 50 grams. This means that the Lightning switch requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Lightning switch measures 50 grams, while the New North Pole V2 comes in at 62.5 grams. This indicates that the New North Pole V2 requires a firmer press to fully depress the key compared to the Lightning switch.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, with less resistance and the ability to type for longer periods of time without fatigue, the KTT Lightning switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience might lean towards the Gateron New North Pole V2, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel.
It is worth mentioning that while the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, both switches fall within the medium weight range overall, with the Lightning switch being slightly lighter than the New North Pole V2. Therefore, if someone desires similar results in terms of force requirements, both switches offer comparable options despite the slight variance in their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In this case, we are comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. The New North Pole V2 has a more traditional travel distance of 4 mm, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Lightning offers a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, which is preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the Lightning would be the preferable option with its 3 mm travel distance. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel, the New North Pole V2's 4 mm travel distance would be the better choice. Both switches offer different advantages, so it ultimately comes down to the individual's preference and typing style.
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 Lightning 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 KTT Lightning linear switch is best known for its approachable "speed" characteristics, making it ideal for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between winning or losing. When typing on these switches, users will notice a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile. The clacky sound is sharp, snappy, and percussive, giving a crisp and bright auditory experience. The Lightning switch also has a high-pitched sound, which may be preferred by those who do not enjoy richer and bassy sound profiles. Additionally, the switch has a unique chirpy characteristic, adding a slight squeak to its acoustic signature. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is distinguished by its removal of a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience compared to its predecessor. However, it still retains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, which is a frictionless typing feel. The New North Pole V2 switch offers a polished typing experience due to its smooth and refined finish. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing. It provides reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring effortless gliding of fingers across the keys. Users can expect a creamy sensation when typing on these switches, as if effortlessly melting into each keystroke. The switch offers a frictionless experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics. The Lightning switch produces a clacky sound profile with a high-pitched and chirpy quality, while the New North Pole V2 switch has a polished sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the New North Pole V2 switch provides a creamy and frictionless typing sensation. Overall, while the two switches have their unique qualities, they both offer smooth and refined typing experiences, ensuring a pleasant user experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing or gaming experience, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it provides an approachable feel and allows for quick keystrokes where milliseconds can make a difference in your performance. The clacky sound profile adds to the tactile feedback, giving you a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener and desire a frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is the way to go. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener, Gateron has maintained the smooth and seamless glide that users love, creating a polished and refined typing experience. The New North Pole V2 also offers options such as creamy and frictionless switches, which provide a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your preference for speed and feedback or a crisper and smoother typing experience will guide your choice between the KTT Lightning and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches.
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