Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Gateron New North Pole V2, a linear switch. The Aliaz switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for office environments. It offers a medium-heavy weight, giving each keystroke a substantial feel and satisfying typing feedback without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 is renowned for its crisp typing experience and frictionless feel, despite the removal of a rubber dampener. Both switches offer unique benefits - the Aliaz excels in providing a quiet and tactile typing experience, while the New North Pole V2 delivers a smooth and frictionless sensation. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron New North Pole V2 are both made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Both switches are aesthetically pleasing as well, with their clear housing allowing for the transmission of RGB lighting if desired. This similarity in housing materials means that users can expect comparable sound and aesthetic qualities from both switches.
However, where the Aliaz and the New North Pole V2 may differ is in the feel of the switch when pressed. The qualities of the polycarbonate housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, in particular, will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing will affect the sound when the key is released. This subtle difference in the distribution of housing materials may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, despite their shared polycarbonate construction.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Aliaz or the Gateron New North Pole V2, you can expect a similar experience in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to their shared use of polycarbonate housing materials. Both switches offer a clear and resonant sound, as well as the option for RGB lighting thanks to their translucent housing. The slight differences in how the housing materials are distributed within the switches may lead to subtle variations in typing feel, but overall, both switches offer a high-quality and visually pleasing option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their distinct actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prioritizes a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. This similarity allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches. However, it is worth noting that the travel distance of the Aliaz and the New North Pole V2 switches is shorter compared to some other switches on the market, which may be preferred by those who prefer a quicker keypress. Both switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience, with the Aliaz providing a tactile bump and the New North Pole V2 featuring a linear actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and switch characteristics.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its muted quality, which ensures a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch's sound profile is not explicitly mentioned, but without the rubber dampener, it may produce a slightly crisper sound than the Aliaz. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard casing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished attributes, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. This switch provides a luxurious typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch also boasts a polished feel, similar to the Aliaz, along with a creamy and frictionless sensation. Users can expect a smooth and buttery typing experience with effortless key travel, enhancing typing speed and comfort.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz excels in providing a medium-heavy weight and a quiet typing experience, along with a silky and polished feel. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a crisper sound profile and a creamy, frictionless feel that maintains the smoothness users have come to appreciate. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quiet typing environment with a substantial feel (Aliaz) or a crisper sound with a creamy, frictionless feel (New North Pole V2). Both switches will deliver a premium typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, your choice should be based on your preferred typing experience. If you value a quiet environment and enjoy a medium-heavy key press with a pronounced typing feedback, the Aliaz switches would be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel and do not mind a slightly lighter key press, the New North Pole V2 switches would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences, noise tolerance, and desired key feel when selecting between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
