Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, both being linear switches. The New North Pole V2 is renowned for its crisp typing experience, as it has done away with the rubber dampener found in its predecessor without compromising on the frictionless feel that users love. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. While the New North Pole V2 offers a polished and creamy feel, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a low-pitched and neutral experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon have several similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create visually appealing effects.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Sea Salt Lemon employs a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a polycarbonate bottom housing will still offer the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with this material. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Sea Salt Lemon will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on both switches, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing material. The top housing, on the other hand, will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles and aesthetic qualities, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sharper or fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches fall under the medium force category, providing a balance between typing comfort and responsiveness.
In terms of bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 requires a slightly heavier force of 62.5 grams, compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's 53 grams. This means that when pressing the keys all the way down, the New North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience due to the slightly higher force required. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a lighter bottom out force, allowing for a smoother and potentially faster typing experience with less exertion.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Sea Salt Lemon, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a more effortless keystroke. This can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. However, individuals who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback and a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the New North Pole V2, as its higher actuation and bottom out forces offer a more pronounced and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same travel distance for both switches. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 New North Pole V2 linear switch is not described in the given information. However, the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is low-pitched, meaning it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This can result in a pleasing and relaxing sound while typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its frictionless typing experience. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener present in its predecessor, these switches still offer a seamless glide and smoothness that users love. Additionally, they provide a crisper typing experience without sacrificing the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup. This indicates that the New North Pole V2 offers a refined and polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as offering a buttery smooth typing experience. The progressive spring and dry-lube design employed by KTT contribute to this smoothness, creating a creamy sensation as fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. This switch is categorized as mild, meaning it provides a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
In conclusion, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches offer desirable qualities. While the sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 are not mentioned, the Sea Salt Lemon has a low-pitched sound profile that can be pleasing to the ears. In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 provides a refined and frictionless typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a buttery smooth sensation, courtesy of its progressive spring and dry-lube design. Overall, both switches offer enjoyable and satisfying typing experiences, albeit with slightly different characteristics. Depending on personal preferences, one can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. The New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams. If you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the better option for you.
The New North Pole V2 is best known for its frictionless typing feel, providing a smooth and seamless glide that users love. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener, Gateron has ensured a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design.
In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2 does not have a defined descriptor, while the Sea Salt Lemon is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which is typically more bass-heavy and mellow. This may be appealing to those who enjoy a more soothing typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a mild typing experience, offering a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics.
Overall, if you prioritize a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched, mellow typing sound, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a frictionless, polished, and creamy typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 could be the ideal option. Consider your personal preferences and requirements to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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