TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Bluish White is widely recognized for its tactile feedback, making it perfect for those who crave a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. These switches have a snappy sound profile and are described as 'buttery', 'mild', 'stepped', 'subtle', 'polished', and 'low-pitched'. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches from Gateron offer a different typing experience. These linear switches no longer feature a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper keystroke sensation. However, Gateron has managed to retain the frictionless and seamless glide that the North Pole lineup is known for. The New North Pole V2 switches are often described as 'polished', 'creamy', and 'frictionless'. While these generalities give you an idea of what to expect from each switch, it's essential to dive deeper to determine the best fit for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron New North Pole V2, we find that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Bluish White or the New North Pole V2.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Bluish White employs nylon while the New North Pole V2 sticks with polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Bluish White provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer plastic composition. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 aligns with its top housing, creating a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances resonance, making the sound crisper.
It is important to note that the differentiation in bottom and top housings means that the qualities of each material will be divided between the two parts of the switch. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which occurs when a key is fully pressed down, will be more influenced by the material of the bottom housing. Conversely, the sound when letting go of a key will be impacted more by the top housing material. This differentiation allows users to have a varied and nuanced typing experience with either the Bluish White or the New North Pole V2.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces differ. The Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the New North Pole V2 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Bluish White switch is more responsive and easier to trigger with a lighter touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Bluish White requires 50 grams of force to fully press the key down, while the New North Pole V2 requires a heavier 62.5 grams of force. This makes the New North Pole V2 switch more substantial, providing a stronger push feel during typing.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TTC Bluish White switch would be a suitable choice, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This lighter actuation force is also advantageous for gamers who require quick and precise keystrokes during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch. With its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a tactile feedback that can be satisfying for those seeking a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have different travel distances. The Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0mm is the more traditional travel distance, while 3.5 mm is slightly shorter. If you prefer a shorter travel distance, the Bluish White switch would be the better option for you, as it provides a faster response time and is favored by gamers. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the longer travel distance of 4 mm in the New North Pole V2 switch would be the better choice. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize a quicker response or a more deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
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.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch is best known for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience. When typing on these switches, a snappy sound profile is detected. The sound of the Bluish White switch is low-pitched, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the feel of the Bluish White switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. A buttery switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, while the mild characteristics make it approachable to most users. The stepped feature gives a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. These switches also have a gentle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for providing a crisper typing experience compared to its predecessor by removing the rubber dampener. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener, these switches still maintain the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, which is a frictionless typing feel. Gateron has ensured the seamless glide and smoothness that users love. In terms of sound, the information provided does not specify any particular sound characteristics for the New North Pole V2.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. The feel of these switches is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch provides a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener and retains the frictionless feel users appreciate. The available information suggests that both switches offer smooth and refined typing experiences due to their polished finishes. While the specific sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 are unknown, it is likely to provide a smooth and effortless typing experience like the Bluish White switch. In terms of feel, both switches offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation, albeit with potentially different tactile characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a tactile or linear switch, as well as their desired sound and feel qualities.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom out force, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a low-pitched sound profile and a range of feels, including a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished sensation. With their smooth and fluid keystroke experience, the Bluish Whites provide a seamless and effortless typing feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a frictionless typing feel, thanks to Gateron's ability to maintain the seamless glide and smoothness that users love. With a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, typing on the New North Pole V2s is like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a tactile experience with a light bottom out force and a range of feels, go for the TTC Bluish White. If you prefer a linear switch with a crisper feel and a medium bottom out force, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is the way to go. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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