Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both linear switches. The New North Pole V2 is known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, made possible by the removal of the rubber dampener while maintaining a seamless glide and smoothness. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its buttery, creamy feel, enhanced by the use of POK material in the stem and bottom housing. With a high-pitched, clacky sound signature, these switches offer a unique typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing. This blend offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, providing a unique sound experience compared to the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gateron New North Pole V2 also utilizes polycarbonate, which contributes to its sharp and crisp sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the overall sound quality of the switch. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch uses a POK bottom housing, known for its smoothness and durability. The POK material offers a coefficient of friction slightly higher than other materials, resulting in smooth keypresses. Additionally, it provides exceptional wear resistance, shock resistance, and durability, making it a popular choice for switch housing.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, both options aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. While the polycarbonate housings of the New North Pole V2 offer a sharper sound profile, the proprietary KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a unique high-pitched and clacky sound. Similarly, the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream prioritizes smoothness and durability, contrasting with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a medium typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Vanilla Ice Cream switch more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing feel, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force. Both switches provide a different tactile experience, catering to individuals with varying preferences in typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The New North Pole V2 offers a traditional travel distance, while the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a slightly shallower press. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the New North Pole V2. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 delivering a clean and seamless typing experience, with a focus on a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a unique sound profile that is also high-pitched, resonant, and clean, providing typists with an immersive auditory experience. While both switches offer a distinctive sound, users can expect a sharp and crisp sound from the New North Pole V2 and a smooth and creamy sound from the Vanilla Ice Cream.
In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 switch provides a polished and frictionless typing experience, thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener and the seamless glide that Gateron is known for. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a buttery and creamy feel, reminiscent of its namesake dessert. Typists can expect a smooth and buttery typing experience, with the lubricant applied at the factory contributing to a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
Overall, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer unique and desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the New North Pole V2 focuses on a high-pitched and clacky sound signature paired with a polished and frictionless typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a smooth and creamy sound profile with a buttery and effortless feel. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with seamless glide or a smoother sound with buttery keystrokes, both switches offer excellent options for typists looking for a top-notch typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a frictionless typing experience with a crisper feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a smooth and creamy typing sensation with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force requirements. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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