Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy options in the linear switch category are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Yunhai. The Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are celebrated for their frictionless typing feel and smooth glide, as they have removed the rubber dampener found in their predecessor, leading to a crisp typing experience that many users adore. Meanwhile, the TTC Yunhai switches are designed for those who prefer an exceptionally light actuation force combined with a deep, rounded sound profile, making each keystroke feel effortless and pleasant. While the New North Pole V2 emphasizes precision and an enhanced tactile sensation, the Yunhai caters to typists seeking a more subdued and gentle 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Yunhai switches utilize markedly different materials for their housings, resulting in distinct sound characteristics that impact the overall typing experience. The New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is designed to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the material's stiffness. This characteristic resonates with users preferring precise auditory feedback during typing, especially in setups that include RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate optimally showcases illumination. In contrast, the Yunhai's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to nylon's softer nature, which muffles sound and provides a more muted auditory experience.
Examining the bottom housing, the distinctions between the two switches persist. Both the New North Pole V2 and the Yunhai utilize polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, in their bottom housings, leading to a continued divergence in sound profiles. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to the overall clarity and resonance during both typing and bottom-out sounds, while the Yunhai's nylon bottom housing enhances the overall depth of sound, leading to a richer auditory feedback. While both materials are effective in their own right, they cater to different user preferences regarding sound characteristics—some may favor the bright and crisp nature of polycarbonate, while others may appreciate the warmer, rounder tones produced by nylon.
Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Yunhai solutions results in distinct typing experiences—one sharp and crisp, the other deep and full. If one were to attempt a combination of these two switches in a typing test, the results would illustrate how each material's properties manifest during use. If knit together in a switch, the nylon present in the Yunhai would absorb more sound, yielding a softer auditory experience, juxtaposed with the sharper articulation from the polycarbonate, creating a more complex auditory profile that would appeal to versatile preferences. Thus, while they may be designed with different materials and outcomes in mind, using both could potentially yield complementary results in a keyboard setup.
Weight
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the TTC Yunhai linear switches offer distinct tactile experiences due to their differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a medium-weight switch that caters to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who favor a less physically demanding typing experience. This difference means that the New North Pole V2 is heavier overall, requiring more force to activate and bottom out compared to the Yunhai. Consequently, users who type or game for extended periods may find the Yunhai more comfortable due to its lower forces, while those who enjoy a firmer push might prefer the New North Pole V2 for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, it is evident that they differ. The New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is closer to the traditional measurement and offers a deeper key press. In contrast, the Yunhai switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering more to those who favor quick response times typically sought after by gamers. Thus, for individuals who prefer a more substantial feel with a hearty depth in key presses, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would be the better choice. Conversely, those who desire a quicker and more responsive action might opt for the TTC Yunhai, as its shorter travel distance aligns well with contemporary gaming preferences. Overall, the Gateron New North Pole V2 provides a longer travel distance, while the TTC Yunhai is the shorter option.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 does not provide specific details regarding its acoustic profile; however, it is implied that the absence of a rubber dampener contributes to a clearer and crisper sound compared to its predecessor. This contrasts with the TTC Yunhai linear switch, known for its deep, rounded sound profile, which creates a more resonant acoustic experience when typing. The choice of keyboard materials and keycaps will further influence the overall sound produced by either switch, but you can anticipate a significant difference between the sharper tone of the New North Pole V2 and the warmer sound of the Yunhai.
In terms of feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 boasts several positive descriptors. Users can expect a polished and creamy finish, indicative of a smooth and refined experience, possibly due to factory lubrication or the materials used. The defining feature, however, is its frictionless typing experience, which ensures minimal resistance and allows for fluid key travel. Conversely, details regarding the feel of the TTC Yunhai linear switch are not explicitly mentioned, but given its lightweight actuation force, one can infer it provides an effortless and gentle typing sensation. Overall, the Gateron New North Pole V2 offers a more sophisticated, smooth typing experience, while the Yunhai leans towards an easy and light touch.
In conclusion, both switches cater to specific user preferences regarding performance. The Gateron New North Pole V2 offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience alongside a crisper sound resulting from its design choices. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch delivers a characteristically deep sound and an incredibly light actuation force, ideal for those who prioritize ease and comfort in their typing. While they differ in auditory characteristics and tactile feedback, both promise to deliver satisfying experiences tailored to their unique qualities. Therefore, your choice would depend on whether you prefer a more refined feel or a lighter, effortless touch while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you want from your keyboard. If you lean towards a more polished and frictionless experience with a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, the New North Pole V2 is likely the better choice for you. Its design enhances the typing experience by providing a crisper feel without the interference of a rubber dampener, making it ideal for those who appreciate a smooth glide with every keystroke. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Yunhai, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, offers an effortless typing feel that can be very appealing for those who type for extended periods. The deep, rounded sound profile of the Yunhai, combined with its light actuation, makes it perfect for typists seeking a soft and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, the right choice between these two switches boils down to whether you prioritize a more tactile, crisper experience or a softer, lighter feel.
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