Gateron North Pole V2 vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, two popular options to consider are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Bluish White. The North Pole V2 is a linear switch that provides a delightful gummy typing experience. The keys offer a deep and muted sound profile, giving a satisfying chewy feel with each press. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish Whites are tactile switches that offer a medium level of resistance, providing a precise and comfortable typing experience. These switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for use in office or shared living spaces. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron North Pole V2 and the TTC Silent Bluish White switches both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially advantageous for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Hence, both switches will offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the North Pole V2 uses polycarbonate, while the Silent Bluish White incorporates nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contributes to a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Bluish White creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer nature. The nylon material has the ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of these switches, it is important to consider the impact of the top and bottom housing materials. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when you release the key. Therefore, differences may arise depending on the combination of materials used in the top and bottom housings of each switch. Nevertheless, both switches are likely to deliver quality and reliable performance while showcasing their unique characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, we can see some noticeable differences. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Silent Bluish White requires slightly less force at 42 grams. This means that the Silent Bluish White switch is lighter in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the North Pole V2 has a higher force requirement of 65 grams, while the Silent Bluish White requires 50 grams. This indicates that the North Pole V2 switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Bluish White switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. This can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel, the North Pole V2 switch would be a better option as it requires a higher force for both actuation and bottoming out.
In summary, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch. However, for users seeking a lighter typing experience, the Silent Bluish White switch would provide similar results to the North Pole V2 switch, albeit with a slightly lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Silent Bluish White switch more suitable for those who prefer a shallower and quicker key press, such as gamers who seek faster response times. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper and more hearty typing experience, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of 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 Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a deep and muted sound profile. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is designed to be as quiet as possible. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making it suitable for office or shared living space use. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience without being too loud, allowing you to work without disturbing others.
In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished. This switch provides a unique typing experience, feeling like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The keys have a lively and spring-like feel, giving you rebound when pressed. Similarly, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It offers a more gentle typing experience with a safe middle-ground feel, and you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel with these stepped switches. Both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with their unique qualities.
Considering the available information, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch differ in their sound profiles and typing feels. The North Pole V2 provides a deep and muted sound with a gummy and chewy typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White offers a softer and quieter sound with a buttery and mild typing feel. However, both switches aim for a satisfying and comfortable typing experience. If you prefer a more subdued sound with a gummy feel, the North Pole V2 is a good choice. If you desire a quieter sound with a buttery feel, the Silent Bluish White is your go-to option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a gummy and creamy typing feel, along with a subdued sound, then the North Pole V2 is the switch for you. It provides a deep and muted sound profile, offering a satisfying typing experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a precise and comfortable typing experience with medium tactility, along with a muted sound, then the TTC Silent Bluish White is the switch to consider. These switches offer a level of resistance when pressed, providing a satisfying typing experience, while also being designed to be as quiet as possible, perfect for office or shared living space use.
Both switches have their unique qualities and offer different typing experiences. The North Pole V2 focuses on a gummy and creamy feel with a subdued sound, while the Silent Bluish White provides a buttery and mild typing experience with a muted sound. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound when making your decision.
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