Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the BSUN Avocado and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The BSUN Avocado switches are well-known for their tactile experience, offering a responsive bump followed by a smooth downstroke. The tactility is pronounced yet satisfying, with a mild sound signature that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches provide a linear typing experience with a crisper feel due to the absence of a rubber dampener. Despite this change, they still offer a frictionless glide and smoothness that Gateron is known for. Each switch has its own unique qualities, catering to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron New North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. While both switches offer similar characteristics in their top housings, it is important to note that the Avocado's polycarbonate top housing may offer a slightly different sound profile compared to the New North Pole V2 due to other factors such as stem material and switch design.
In terms of bottom housings, the Bsun Avocado utilizes a nylon housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, offering a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with the Avocado providing a more immersive and mellow sound, while the New North Pole V2 offers a more distinct and clear sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron New North Pole V2 will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics in their housing materials, with the Avocado providing a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, while the New North Pole V2 offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. Whether you prefer a mellower typing experience or a more distinct sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to an overall satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Avocado requires a heavier force of 65 grams versus the New North Pole V2's 62.5 grams. This makes the Avocado switch slightly heavier overall than the New North Pole V2. Both switches provide a medium feel, which is a good middle ground for those who prefer a balance between light and heavy switches. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the New North Pole V2, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the Bsun Avocado to be more to their liking.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, making it shorter than the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4mm. The Avocado switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for fast key presses. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for response time and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Avocado switch offers a mild, neutral sound signature that complements the tactile typing experience it provides. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is not explicitly defined, as sound can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a tactile typing experience with a prominent feedback that is not overwhelming. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel.
Overall, the Bsun Avocado switch excels in delivering tactile feedback with a satisfying bump and buttery downstroke, accompanied by a mild sound signature. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch offers a crisp and frictionless typing experience with a smooth and creamy feel. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback or linear smoothness, both switches offer high-quality typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and pronounced feedback, the Avocado is a great choice. It offers a snappy and invigorating typing sensation with a mild sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium actuation force and a smooth, frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 is the way to go. It provides a polished and creamy typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a smooth typing feel in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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