KTT Matcha vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the Gateron North Pole V2 are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for different typing preferences. The Matcha is well-known for its tactile feedback, providing a comfortable and snappy feel while typing. This switch also offers a clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is a linear switch that provides a gummy typing feel and a deep, muted sound profile. It offers a satisfying chewy sensation while typing. Both switches have unique qualities that make them appealing to different individuals. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gateron North Pole V2, namely polycarbonate, bring similar qualities to both switches. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced by the switches. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, making it especially attractive for those looking to enhance their keyboard aesthetics.
Despite these similarities, it is worth noting that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom housings for each switch. When pressing down on a key, the KTT Matcha and Gateron North Pole V2 switches provide differing experiences due to the characteristics of their respective bottom housings. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, allowing users to feel a distinct tactile feedback and producing a unique sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more substantial role in the sound when releasing a key, providing a distinct audible feedback that completes the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha and Gateron North Pole V2 keyboards share the same housing materials, specifically polycarbonate, which offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits. However, the differentiation between the top and bottom housings contributes to unique tactile and audible feedback when typing on these switches. Whether it's the pronounced bottom-out sound and feel created by the bottom housing or the satisfying sound upon key release from the top housing, both switches provide users with distinctive experiences that make their typing journey enjoyable and customizable.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, we can observe a significant difference in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Matcha is 40 grams, whereas the North Pole V2 requires a slightly heavier 50 grams of force for actuation. Thus, if a lighter actuation force is preferred, the Matcha would be the ideal choice. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Matcha requires 45 grams of force, while the North Pole V2 demands a higher force of 65 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the North Pole V2 falls on the medium-heavy side.
Considering the weight factor, individuals who prefer lighter switches would appreciate the Matcha as it allows for extended typing sessions, which is beneficial for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the North Pole V2 with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Although both switches provide distinct characteristics, it is important to note that similar results can be achieved by selecting switches with comparable actuation and bottom out forces. In this case, however, the Matcha exhibits lighter forces overall, while the North Pole V2 presents a heavier actuation and bottom out experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel from the top to the bottom. This ensures a satisfying tactile response and allows for comfortable typing or gaming experiences. Regardless of whether you choose the Matcha or the North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility when typing, which contributes to a satisfying typing experience. It also produces a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a gummy typing feel, which gives a delightful chewy sensation while typing. It has a deep and muted sound profile that adds to its unique typing experience.
When it comes to sound, the Matcha switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch is described as subdued, offering a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Matcha switch offers a stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery typing experience. Stepped switches provide a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Snappy switches are super responsive, making the typing experience feel lively. Accented switches provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Feathery switches require little exertion to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished. The gummy feel gives a unique sensation of typing on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. Bouncy switches provide spring-like feedback, giving a lively feel while typing. Polished switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a comfortable and snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, while the North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile. However, it's important to note that individual preferences may vary, and the choice of switch should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light and snappy typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is the way to go. You'll enjoy its comfortable tactility and the distinct sound it produces. Additionally, if you prefer switches with a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, or subtle feel, the Matcha switch will meet your expectations.
On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and muted sound with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is the better choice for you. Its gummy typing experience provides a unique sensation akin to bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, if you enjoy switches with a creamy, bouncy, or polished feel, you'll appreciate the North Pole V2 switch.
Ultimately, the decision between the Matcha and North Pole V2 switches depends on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. Consider whether you value a lighter or medium-heavy bottom-out force, a clacky or subdued sound profile, and a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, or subtle feel versus a gummy, creamy, bouncy, or polished feel. By aligning your preferences with the characteristics of each switch, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your typing experience.
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