Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and Gateron North Pole V2 offer two distinct typing experiences. The Aliaz switch is a tactile option tailored for quiet environments such as offices, providing a medium-heavy weight and a pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is a linear switch that offers a gummy and creamy typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile, making it a delightful option for those seeking a satisfying typing experience. 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
65g
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
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of this plastic material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through the housing. This results in a visually appealing effect when the switches are used in combination with RGB lighting setups.
The Aliaz and North Pole V2 switches both benefit from the clear polycarbonate housing in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, as the material contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. While the top housing affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Despite the differences in the top and bottom housings, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound production and responsiveness, thanks to the use of polycarbonate in their construction.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the housings of the Gateron Aliaz and Gateron North Pole V2 switches provides a consistent and high-quality sound experience. The stiffness of the plastic material contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, which is further enhanced by the translucency of polycarbonate for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Regardless of any slight differences between the top and bottom housings, both switches deliver similar results in terms of sound output and responsiveness, making them both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-performance typing experience.
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 North Pole V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use. Both switches offer a similar tactile feedback and durability, but the Aliaz is on the heavier side while the North Pole V2 is lighter, catering to different preferences in typing force. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the heavier Aliaz for a more substantial typing experience or the lighter North Pole V2 for a gentler typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, the two switches are equal. As a result, whether you choose the Gateron Aliaz or the Gateron North Pole V2, you can expect to get similar results in terms of how the switch feels when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing a familiar tactile experience for users.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience that is ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a more discreet typing experience overall.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is praised for its gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished feel, creating a unique typing sensation that is likened to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. This smooth and buttery typing experience, combined with spring-like elastic feedback, allows for a more enjoyable and lively typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switch provides a medium-heavy weight and a pronounced typing feedback with a quiet sound profile, making it suitable for those seeking a tactile typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment. Meanwhile, the North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy and creamy typing feel with a subdued sound, creating a delightful and unique typing sensation that is more lively and bouncy. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your environment and personal typing preferences. If you value a quiet typing experience and enjoy a medium-heavy key feel with a pronounced feedback, the Aliaz switch might be the best choice for you, especially in a office setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a gummy, slightly subdued sound profile, along with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, the North Pole V2 switch could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual preferences in typing experience and noise level.
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