Gateron North Pole V2 vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the linear switch category but offer unique features and characteristics. The North Pole V2 is best known for its "Gummy" typing experience, with a deep and muted sound profile and a satisfyingly chewy feel when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its innovative internal design, offering a seamless glide and a "Q-texture" that provides a springy resistance similar to biting into a chewy mochi. While the North Pole V2 is described as "Gummy", "Creamy", and "Bouncy", the Venus is categorized as "Buttery", "Frictionless", and "Thocky". Both switches promise smooth and engaging typing experiences, but each offers a distinct feel and sound profile. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Venus, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the TTC Venus features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound compared to polycarbonate. This difference in sound profile may appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the North Pole V2 and Venus switches use polycarbonate for this component. Again, polycarbonate is praised for offering a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it suitable for switches with RGB lighting. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the bottom housing, users can expect similar sound qualities and overall performance in this aspect. However, it is worth noting that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, showcasing the importance of this component in the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a keyboard switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Gateron North Pole V2 and TTC Venus switches use polycarbonate for their bottom housing, they differ in the material used for the top housing. The North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Venus's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience, but their actuation and bottom out forces set them apart. The North Pole V2 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Venus switch. When it comes to bottom out force, the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams, which is heavier than the 52 grams needed for the Venus switch. Those who prefer a firmer typing feel may opt for the North Pole V2, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may lean towards the Venus switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we can see that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, compared to the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Venus. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the North Pole V2 offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Venus. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Venus with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as having a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle auditory experience when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound signature that wraps each keystroke in a subdued auditory embrace. While both switches provide a quieter typing experience, the Venus switch potentially offers a slightly deeper and richer tone, thanks to its unique internal configuration.
When it comes to feel, the North Pole V2 switch is recognized for its gummy typing sensation, offering a delightful and chewy feel reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Conversely, the TTC Venus switch presents a buttery and frictionless typing experience, with a seamless glide and a distinctive "Q-texture" that provides a matte sensation akin to biting into a chewy mochi. Both switches offer smooth and engaging typing experiences, with the Venus switch potentially catering to those who prefer a more mild and frictionless feel.
Overall, while both the Gateron North Pole V2 and TTC Venus linear switches offer unique and satisfying qualities in terms of sound and feel, they present distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The North Pole V2 may appeal to those seeking a subdued sound profile and a gummy typing feel, while the Venus switch caters to individuals looking for a low-pitched, muted sound signature and a buttery, frictionless typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on the information provided. Choose the North Pole V2 if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a gummy typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the TTC Venus if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams and desire a unique Q-texture sensation with a nearly frictionless glide, along with a matte switch feel. The Venus also offers a light actuation for rapid typing and a muted sound signature. Consider your personal preferences for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile when selecting between these two switches. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style and the overall typing experience you desire.
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