Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider, including typing experience, resistance level, and sound profile. Two popular options on the market are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Brown. The New North Pole V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its frictionless typing feel and its seamless glide. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer has a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown, a tactile switch, provides a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Its muted sound profile is another highlight. While these general pointers can give you an idea of what to expect from each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.80 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Brown have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches with RGB lighting. The Silent Brown also utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, providing similar sound characteristics and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the switches differ. The New North Pole V2 uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, which shares the same sound profile characteristics as its top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Silent Brown incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch.
Overall, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Brown share similar qualities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing, resulting in comparable sound profiles and aesthetic advantages for RGB lighting. However, the choice of bottom housing materials sets them apart. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to a consistent and clear sound experience. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Brown creates a deeper and fuller sound, adding a different dimension to the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The New North Pole V2 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams. Both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the New North Pole V2 at 62.5 grams and the Silent Brown at 63.5 grams.
Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Brown switch due to its lower actuation force. This lighter actuation force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it a suitable choice for those who use their keyboard for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the New North Pole V2. With a slightly heavier actuation force, this switch provides a stronger push feel and may be preferred by those who seek a more solid keystroke sensation.
In terms of bottom out force, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. This means that the force required to fully press the keys is relatively similar. As a result, users looking for a satisfying tactile feedback when bottoming out will get comparable results from both switches.
Considering the weight of the switches is essential for personal preference and typing style. Some users may favor lighter switches to reduce fatigue during long typing sessions, while others may appreciate the added resistance of heavier switches for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch will depend on an individual's specific preferences and needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. Despite this slight difference, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for keyboard switches. It is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular among gamers due to the potential for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the Silent Brown switch may be more suitable. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial feel, the switch with the longer travel distance, the New North Pole V2, may be more preferable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 does not have a specific descriptor mentioned in the available information. However, based on its predecessor, we can expect a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, potentially resulting in a more pronounced sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as offering a muted sound profile. This means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches may offer different sound characteristics depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for providing a frictionless typing experience. It retains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, offering a seamless glide and smoothness that many users love. Additionally, it is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, indicating a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction and effortless key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle typing sensation, safe and approachable to most users. Both switches seem to prioritize smoothness and seamless typing, albeit with potentially slight differences in their tactile response.
Considering all the available information, it appears that the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer subjective qualities that can be quite similar. They both aim to provide a smooth and refined typing experience, with the Gateron switch focusing on a frictionless glide and the TTC switch emphasizing a buttery and mild sensation. While the sound characteristics of the Gateron switch remain unknown, it is possible to achieve a muted sound profile similar to the TTC switch with the right combination of keyboard board and keycaps. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the desired typing experience in terms of smoothness and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would be a great choice. It offers a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still maintaining the frictionless glide and smoothness that the North Pole lineup is known for. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Silent Brown is the way to go. It provides a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, these switches have a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, while the Silent Brown provides a buttery, mild, and polished keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific typing experience and sound profile you desire.
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