Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that often come up for consideration are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Rose. The New North Pole V2 is a linear switch known for its crisper typing experience and frictionless feel. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer has a rubber dampener, but Gateron has managed to retain the seamless glide and smoothness that users have come to love. On the other hand, the Rose switch stands out with its beautiful aesthetics, but there is more to it than meets the eye. The progressive springs used in the Rose offer a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. Users describe the sound of typing on Rose switches as reminiscent of bassy raindrops. These switches are categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Rose both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing option for those interested in customizable lighting effects.
While the top housings of these switches share similar qualities, the bottom housings differ. The New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Rose uses nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 continues to enhance the sound profile, creating a more consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose's nylon bottom housing provides a different sound experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This can be appealing to typists who prefer a softer and more rounded sound when typing.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles. When typing on the New North Pole V2, the impact and sound produced when pressing down on a key will primarily be influenced by the polycarbonate bottom housing. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be more affected by the polycarbonate top housing. The Rose, with its nylon bottom housing, will have a distinct bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will still contribute to the sound when letting go of a key. Despite the differences in bottom housings, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and unique typing experience to their users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the New North Pole V2 requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas the exact actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown. Therefore, if a lighter actuation force is preferred, the New North Pole V2 would be the suitable choice.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which is medium in terms of heaviness. Comparatively, the Rose switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Rose switch would be the better option due to its slightly heavier bottom out force.
Overall, while the actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is known and lighter, favoring longer periods of typing, the Rose switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force for a more pronounced feel during typing. Both switches fall within the medium range when it comes to their bottom out forces, but the Rose switch is slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for weight and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on a key with either switch will result in a similar feeling and experience. In terms of travel distance, it can be concluded that neither switch is shorter or longer than the other.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is not specifically described in the given information. However, based on the absence of a rubber dampener and the retention of a frictionless typing feel, it can be inferred that these switches are likely to produce a relatively low-pitched and smooth sound. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This implies that it produces a bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Regarding feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is described as offering a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. A polished finish and possible factory lubrication contribute to a smooth and refined feel, ensuring reduced friction and effortless keystrokes. This implies a sleek and frictionless typing sensation. In contrast, the KTT Rose linear switch is described as having a mild and polished feel. The mild characteristic suggests a gentle typing experience without pronounced features. Additionally, the switch's polished finish contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking into account all available information, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for providing a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while maintaining a hallmark frictionless feel. However, there is no specific information regarding its sound characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, likely producing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished finish, contributing to reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gateron switch also has the additional descriptors of being creamy and frictionless, while the KTT switch offers a mild typing experience. With this information, it can be concluded that while the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Rose linear switches have some similarities in terms of feel, their sound qualities differ, with the Gateron switch being unknown and the KTT switch having a low-pitched sound profile.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force, both switches are suitable options as the New North Pole V2 has a bottom-out force of 62.5 grams and the Rose has a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 63.5 grams.
In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2 is not explicitly described, so it may have a more neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Rose switches are low-pitched, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. If you prefer a switch with a more pronounced and mellower sound, the Rose might be the better choice for you.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 offers a variety of descriptors including polished, creamy, and frictionless. These descriptors suggest that the New North Pole V2 provides a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Rose switches, on the other hand, are described as mild and polished, which indicates a more gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering these factors, if you prioritize a crisper typing experience with a medium bottom-out force and a frictionless feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the KTT Rose linear switch would be a great option for you.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Rose linear switches depends on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. It's important to consider these factors in order to choose the switch that will provide you with the most enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
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