Gateron North Pole V2 vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the KTT Wine Red. Both switches are linear, providing a smooth keystroke experience without a tactile bump. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy feel, offering a satisfyingly chewy typing experience accompanied by a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer a pillowy light typing feel with a rich and deep sound profile. While these generalities may help you narrow down your options, let's dive deeper into the characteristics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the KTT Wine Red share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of both the North Pole V2 and Wine Red switches.
However, despite these similarities, there may still be some differences between the two switches in terms of their housing materials. If the top and bottom housings differ for a particular switch, it means that the qualities attributed to polycarbonate will be divided between the two parts. When pressing down on either the North Pole V2 or Wine Red switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches share the advantages of polycarbonate in their housings, the distribution of these qualities may vary depending on the specific design of each switch.
In summary, the Gateron North Pole V2 and KTT Wine Red switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings, which contributes to a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness. Both switches benefit from the clarity and resonance brought by polycarbonate, as well as the visual appeal offered by its translucency when paired with RGB lighting. However, the distribution of these housing materials may differ between switch models, leading to variations in the bottom-out sound and feel versus the sound produced upon key release. Ultimately, while the overall qualities of the housing materials are similar, specific differences may arise in their implementation within each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams, making it a better option for those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel. However, both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the North Pole V2 again takes the lead with 65 grams, while the Wine Red requires 55 grams to bottom out. This indicates that the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Wine Red to be a more suitable choice. Overall, while the North Pole V2 is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, both switches will offer similar results for individuals looking for a medium-level typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer the same key press experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the North Pole V2 or the Wine Red, you can expect to feel a 4 mm travel distance when pressing down on a key. Therefore, you will achieve similar results with both switches, as they offer the same travel distance.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 per 10 switches.
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 North Pole V2 switch is best known for its gummy typing feel. When typing on these switches, users can expect a unique experience similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The keys have a bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback with smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch does not have a specific description in terms of feel. However, based on the information provided, we can assume that it offers a pillowy light typing feel.
Moving on to sound, the North Pole V2 switch produces a deep and muted sound profile. It is a subdued switch that offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. This creates a dampened sound when pressed, although it is not completely silent. In contrast, the Wine Red switch is described as bassy and low-pitched. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a gummy typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile. Its keys have a bouncy, polished, and creamy sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch offers a pillowy light typing feel with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. While both switches have their own unique qualities, it is important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which can also impact the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel and a deeper, muted sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. The gummy and chewy feel will provide a unique typing experience, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the subdued sound signature offers a more subtle and dampened sound when compared to most switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be a great option. The pillowy light feel combined with the satisfyingly deep and bassy sound gives you a typing experience akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for weight, sound, and feel.
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