Gateron North Pole V2 vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the KTT Orange 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 North Pole V2 and the KTT Orange. The North Pole V2 is known for its gummy, creamy, and subdued characteristics, providing a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfyingly chewy typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches come with a 22mm long spring, offering a bouncy typing experience. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, these switches provide a slick and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron North Pole V2 and the KTT Orange share many similarities when it comes to their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer plastic of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches aiming for a precise and distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and visually appealing effects.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the KTT Orange are the same material, their impact on the overall typing experience differs. The bottom housing of the switch has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when the key is released. This means that the specific qualities and characteristics attributed to the polycarbonate material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch, offering a well-rounded acoustic and tactile experience.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches boast the translucent properties of polycarbonate, allowing users to showcase their RGB lighting setups with ease. Whether it's the Gateron North Pole V2 or the KTT Orange, the clear housing design contributes to the overall visual appeal, creating a visually striking keyboard setup. Ultimately, while there may be small variations in the overall design and structure of the switches themselves, the utilization of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings leads to similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic flexibility.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are notable differences. The North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Orange's 46 grams, making it more resistant to accidental keystrokes. Similarly, the North Pole V2 also has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Orange's 53 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Orange switch would be a suitable choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are relatively lower. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing feedback may opt for the North Pole V2 switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer a medium weight range, providing a balance between typing efficiency and typing satisfaction. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have different travel distances. The North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The North Pole V2 falls into the more traditional range for travel distances at 4 mm, while the Orange switch is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Orange switch would be the better option. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In that case, the North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice for those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on a key.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron 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 North Pole V2 for $5.70.
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
The Gateron North Pole V2 and the KTT Orange linear switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy sound profile, which provides a deep and muted sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the North Pole V2 is described as gummy, giving it a unique typing experience similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It is also described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation due to factory lubing or specific materials. Additionally, the North Pole V2 provides a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like feedback and rebound when pressed. The switch is also polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Similarly, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively keys that rebound when pressed. It is also described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction.
In conclusion, while the North Pole V2 and KTT Orange switches have some similarities in terms of feel, such as the bouncy feedback, their sound profiles differ significantly. The North Pole V2 delivers a deep and muted gummy sound, while the Orange switch offers a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone. Both switches prioritize smoothness and smooth key travel, with the North Pole V2 being described as gummy and creamy, and the Orange switch being frictionless. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying and chewy typing feel, then the North Pole V2 would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and value a bouncy typing feel with a slick and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Orange switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics and it's important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and even aesthetics when making your decision. Overall, you can't go wrong with either switch as they both provide a delightful typing experience, tailored to different preferences.
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