Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, it is clear that there are distinct features that set them apart. The New North Pole V2 is praised for its crisp typing experience and frictionless feel, thanks to the absence of a rubber dampener, while maintaining a polished and creamy sensation during use. On the other hand, the Purple Star stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a buttery smooth typing experience and a neutral sound signature. With a light 45g bottom-out, the Purple Star is ideal for those who prefer light typing with ease and comfort. These general pointers can guide you in your decision-making process; however, let's delve deeper into each switch to help you determine the best fit for your keyboard preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Purple Star, we see that both switches have unique characteristics based on their materials. The New North Pole V2's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with clear and resonant tones. This makes it ideal for those looking for a crisper sound experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM top and bottom housing offer a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a different auditory experience for users. Despite their differences, both switches excel in providing distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gateron New North Pole V2's polycarbonate housing is translucent, allowing for RGB lighting effects to shine through and enhance the overall look of the switch. This makes it a popular choice for those wanting to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star's POM housing may not have the same translucent properties but offers a unique and pleasing sound profile that caters to users looking for a deeper and more muted typing experience. Depending on the user's preferences, both switches offer aesthetically pleasing options that cater to different visual and auditory preferences.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice between the New North Pole V2 and Purple Star ultimately comes down to personal preference. The polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 creates a sharper and crisper typing sound, while the POM housing of the Purple Star offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. Whether one prefers a more resonant and clear sound or a deeper and more muted experience, both switches provide unique options for users seeking a customized typing experience based on their housing material preferences. Regardless of which switch is chosen, both the New North Pole V2 and Purple Star deliver high-quality sound profiles that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch. The New North Pole V2 requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 62.5 grams to bottom out, placing it in the medium range. In contrast, the Purple Star only needs 43 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. The difference in weight between the two switches may impact users' typing preferences: those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may opt for the Purple Star, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star has a shorter travel distance of 3.5mm compared to the New North Pole V2's 4mm. This 0.5mm may not seem like a substantial difference, but it can be noticeable, especially for those who prioritize faster response times and more precise typing. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Purple Star for its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress and a deeper feel may lean towards the New North Pole V2. Both switches have their own advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and comfort.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for a neutral sound profile, allowing for a distraction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow in tone. Depending on personal preference and setup, both switches can provide a pleasant typing sound that caters to different tastes.
In terms of feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is characterized by a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. This means users can expect smooth and refined key presses with minimal resistance, creating a seamless typing flow. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a mild and easy-to-press feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. Both switches provide a comfortable typing feel, but the New North Pole V2 excels in providing a luxurious and frictionless typing sensation.
Overall, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and KTT Purple Star linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the New North Pole V2 focuses on providing a polished and frictionless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Purple Star switch offers a buttery smooth feel with a low-pitched sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams and a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing feel, the New North Pole V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams and a mild, easy-to-press typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Purple Star could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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