Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options to consider are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen. The New North Pole V2 stands out for its crisper typing experience, as Gateron has removed the rubber dampener without compromising on the hallmark frictionless feel that users love. Categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the New North Pole V2 provides a seamless glide and smoothness that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switches from TTC excel in their extremely quiet sound profile. These switches offer a pillowy feel while typing, combining 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Buttery', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished' characteristics. Each switch has its unique appeal, providing users with distinct choices based on their preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and TTC Silent Frozen both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This means that they share similar characteristics and qualities when it comes to the sound profile and aesthetic appearance. Both switches utilize polycarbonate due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard.
However, while the housing materials are the same, the New North Pole V2 and Silent Frozen may have slight variations in terms of sound and feel due to potential differences in design and construction. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, any discrepancies between the two switches may be attributed to the specific design choices made by Gateron and TTC in their respective models.
Overall, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and TTC Silent Frozen can deliver similar results. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings ensures consistent sound characteristics and resonant qualities. Whether you prefer the New North Pole V2 or the Silent Frozen, you can expect them to offer a satisfying typing experience, especially if you plan to incorporate RGB lighting into your keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, we find some notable differences. The New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Silent Frozen requires only 39 grams to trigger a keystroke. This makes the Silent Frozen lighter and potentially more conducive to prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 requires 62.5 grams of pressure, whereas the Silent Frozen only requires 43 grams. This makes the Silent Frozen significantly lighter and may provide a gentler typing experience. Thus, those who prefer a lighter touch and a more effortless keystroke activation may find the Silent Frozen to be a more suitable option. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 is better suited for those who prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Silent Frozen has a shallower travel distance compared to the New North Pole V2. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered the more traditional option, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, a 3.5 mm travel distance is on the shorter side, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either hearty depth or increased responsiveness.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.55.
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 explicitly described in the provided information, so its sound profile remains unknown. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is described as "thocky," producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. It is also labeled as "low-pitched" and "muted," meaning it has a bass-heavy and mellow tone while minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Overall, without specific details on the sound of the Gateron New North Pole V2, it is difficult to make a direct comparison, but based on the descriptions provided, the TTC Silent Frozen switch seems to offer a specific sound experience.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and TTC Silent Frozen switches are described as having a smooth and refined typing experience. The New North Pole V2 is labeled as having a "polished" and "frictionless" feel, ensuring reduced friction and effortlessly smooth key travel. Additionally, the feel of the New North Pole V2 switches is said to offer seamless glide and smoothness that users appreciate. Similarly, the Silent Frozen switches are described as "creamy," providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. They are also labeled as "buttery," implying a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The Silent Frozen switches are further described as "feathery," implying they require little exertion from the fingers and reduce finger fatigue. Moreover, they are also labeled as "subtle," indicating a gentle resistance suitable for shared spaces. Both switches seem to offer a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, with slight variations in the specific qualities.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and TTC Silent Frozen switches seem to have some similarities in terms of feel, both providing smooth and refined typing experiences. However, the sound qualities of the two switches differ, with the sound profile of the New North Pole V2 switch remaining unknown and the Silent Frozen switch characterized as thocky, low-pitched, and muted. If an individual is considering these switches solely based on their feel, they can expect similar results in terms of smooth and comfortable typing experiences. However, those who prioritize sound may prefer the specific qualities offered by the Silent Frozen switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and priorities in terms of both sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, your choice should depend on your preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. The New North Pole V2 has a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, while the Silent Frozen has a light bottom-out force of 43 grams.
If you prefer a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still enjoying a frictionless glide and smoothness, the New North Pole V2 is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize an extremely quiet sound profile along with a super smooth, pillowy typing feel, the Silent Frozen switch is the better option.
In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2 does not have a specific description mentioned. However, the Silent Frozen is described as thocky, low-pitched, and muted, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, and minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Silent Frozen is described as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a silky, seamless, uniform typing sensation with a gentle resistance, suitable for shared spaces.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prioritize a medium or light bottom-out force, a crisper typing experience or an extremely quiet sound profile, and a polished, creamy, or buttery smooth typing feel. By considering these factors, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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