Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Pine. The New North Pole V2 switch is a linear switch that offers a crisper typing experience thanks to the removal of its rubber dampener. However, it still retains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, which is a frictionless typing feel. Gateron has managed to maintain the seamless glide and smoothness that users have come to love. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch is also a linear switch, known for its translucent, forest green appearance. These switches are medium-heavy, providing a satisfying typing experience that feels buttery smooth. With a polished, factory-lubed finish, the Pine switches minimize friction and promote smooth key travel. Overall, both switches have their own unique qualities that make them desirable options for mechanical keyboards. 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
62.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Pine both utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics from both the New North Pole V2 and the Pine.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the two parts. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Therefore, although both switches share the same polycarbonate material for their top and bottom housings, differences in other components or design may result in variations in the overall typing experience and sound.
Overall, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Pine benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their housing materials. This choice enhances the sound profile of the switches, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper output. Additionally, the visual appeal is heightened with the translucent polycarbonate, making it suitable for those who appreciate RGB lighting. While there may be differences in the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, users can expect similar quality and characteristics from both switches due to their shared polycarbonate composition.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are a few similarities and differences to note. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The New North Pole V2 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams. Similarly, the New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams. While these variances are relatively minor, they may have an impact on the typing experience for individuals who prefer either a lighter or a stronger push feel.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Pine switch would be the more suitable option with its slightly lower actuation and bottom out forces. The lighter weight allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue, making it ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a slightly heavier push feel, which some individuals may find more substantial and satisfying during their typing experience.
It is worth mentioning that while the forces may differ slightly between these two switches, the overall results may still be similar. Both switches fall within the medium range, meaning that they offer a balanced typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between the New North Pole V2 and the Pine switch comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience an individual desires.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same level of travel in both switches. Therefore, both switches provide similar results in terms of the distance you feel when using them.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 New North Pole V2 switch is known for its crisp and clean typing experience. Since it no longer has a rubber dampener, the switch produces a sharper sound profile compared to its predecessor. However, specific details about the sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 are not provided. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound. These switches offer a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. They also have a mellow and bass-heavy sound compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the New North Pole V2 and the KTT Pine switches offer smooth and effortless typing experiences. The New North Pole V2 is praised for its frictionless typing feel, which provides a seamless glide and smoothness that users love. With the removal of the rubber dampener, the switch maintains a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Pine switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is factory-lubed and designed for effortless and uniform typing, providing a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys.
Based on the available information, both the New North Pole V2 and the KTT Pine switches offer similar qualities in terms of feel, providing a smooth and frictionless typing experience. While the sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 are not specified, the KTT Pine switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched sound profile. Consideration must also be given to other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can affect the sound of the switches. Overall, both switches seem to offer desirable qualities for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-bottom out force switch that provides a crisper typing experience while still maintaining a frictionless glide and smoothness, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be a great choice. The removal of the rubber dampener allows for a more tactile feel, enhancing the typing experience. In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2 offers a sound profile that is not explicitly described. However, based on the information provided, it can be expected to have a neutral or balanced sound. When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, delivering a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force switch that offers an effortless typing experience with a buttery smooth keystroke, the KTT Pine linear switch would suit your needs. With its polished, factory-lubed finish, the Pine switch minimizes friction, allowing for smooth key travel. The Pine switch is also described as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. In terms of sound, the Pine switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deeper and richer tone during key presses.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the KTT Pine linear switch would depend on your personal preferences. Both switches offer their unique features and advantages, so it's important to consider factors such as typing experience, sound profile, and preferred feel when making your choice.
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