Gateron North Pole V2 vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's important to consider factors such as sound profile, typing feel, and actuation speed. Two switches that stand out in these aspects are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches. The North Pole V2 offers a unique and delightful typing experience with its gummy and creamy sound profile that is both subdued and bouncy. Its polished feel adds to the overall satisfaction while typing. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is perfect for those who prioritize speed and precision. With a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, these switches provide a neutral and polished feel. Moreover, their reduced travel distance allows for quick and effortless actuation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Speed Silver show some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clearer and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for incorporating RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using these switches with RGB lighting.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Speed Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound of the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of the impact on the sound when releasing a key, the top housing material holds greater influence. Both switches have polycarbonate top housing, which provides a clear and resonant sound upon key release. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience when letting go of a key with both the North Pole V2 and the Speed Silver.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are notable differences. The North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 45 grams. Additionally, the North Pole V2 has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Speed Silver measures at 55 grams. This means that the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a lighter typing experience, making it preferable for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions. It is worth noting that both switches fall into the medium range when considering actuation force and bottom out force. So, while there are differences in weight between the two switches, they still provide similar results in terms of overall functionality and performance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Speed Silver's shorter travel distance may be appealing to gamers who value faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's longer travel distance may be preferable to those who desire a deeper and more substantial key press. It is important to consider personal preferences and the specific demands of your usage to determine which switch is the most suitable. However, both options provide different experiences and results, catering to varying needs.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 North Pole V2 linear switch provides a deep and muted sound profile. It can be best described as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While it's not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a more neutral sound profile. It falls into the moderate category, with a sound that is neither too loud nor too quiet. The Speed Silver switch is suitable for various purposes, regardless of whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Please note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a unique and delightful typing experience. These switches are often described as gummy, as they offer a sensation similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, they provide a creamy and bouncy feel, with smooth and buttery keystrokes and a spring-like feedback sensation. These switches are also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a more mild and polished typing experience. It falls into the category of mild switches, providing a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Like the North Pole V2, the Speed Silver switch is also polished, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all of the available information into account, it is clear that the Gateron North Pole V2 and TTC Speed Silver linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The North Pole V2 provides a deep, muted sound profile with a gummy, creamy, and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a more neutral sound profile with a mild and polished typing feel. However, it's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as everyone's preferences may vary. Ultimately, both switches are suitable options, depending on the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a delightful and chewy typing experience with a deeper and muted sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is the way to go. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the better choice. It has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and allows for quick and effortless actuation due to its reduced travel distance.
In terms of sound, the North Pole V2 offers a subdued switch experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. It provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. In contrast, the Speed Silver has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
When it comes to feel, the North Pole V2 offers a gummy typing experience, similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It also has a creamy and bouncy sensation, providing a unique and lively feel. The Speed Silver, on the other hand, offers a mild typing experience, approaching a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. It also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Speed Silver depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a deeper and more muted sound profile with a satisfying and chewy typing feel, go for the North Pole V2. But if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience with a lighter resistance and reduced travel distance, opt for the Speed Silver. Consider your desired typing experience and sound profile to make the best decision for your needs.
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