Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and Gateron North Pole V2 offer distinct typing experiences. The BSUN Avocado is a tactile switch known for its pronounced tactile feedback, snappy bump, and buttery downstroke. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is a linear switch with a gummy and muted sound profile, providing a chewy typing feel. While the Avocado is characterized by its invigorating and sharp tactility, the North Pole V2 offers a creamy and subdued typing experience. If you prefer a switch with pronounced tactile feedback, the Avocado is the way to go. However, if you enjoy a smoother, gummy typing feel, the North Pole V2 might be more up your alley. To determine the best switch for you, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to these switches. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Avocado features a nylon material while the North Pole V2 sticks with polycarbonate. Nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate.
While both switches rely on polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Avocado's nylon bottom housing creates a different sound profile than the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon offers a rounder and duller sound, contrasting with the sharper and clearer sound produced by the polycarbonate material. This distinction affects the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be impacted by the qualities of the bottom housing, while the release sound will be influenced by the top housing material.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron North Pole V2 plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the Avocado's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences in material contribute to the overall feel and sound produced by each switch, giving users a choice between a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, rounder sound depending on their preference.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Avocado is lighter in both aspects. The Avocado has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Avocado a more comfortable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. This means that users can expect a substantial typing experience from either switch. Whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation force, both the Avocado and the North Pole V2 will provide a satisfying keystroke experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Avocado offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster input. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a deeper key press experience, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 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 Avocado switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature, providing a subtle background noise while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch presents a deep and muted sound profile, creating a more subdued typing experience. Both switches offer a quieter typing sound, but the Avocado switch may have a slightly more neutral tone compared to the North Pole V2.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a satisfying bump during the keystroke without being overpowering. The switch provides a sharp and snappy feel, making for an engaging typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a rebound effect when the keys are pressed. Both switches offer a unique tactile feel, with the Avocado switch leaning towards a more pronounced and reactive feedback compared to the North Pole V2.
Overall, both the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provide users with a delightful typing experience. While the Avocado switch excels in offering pronounced tactility and a subtle sound signature, the North Pole V2 switch delivers a smooth and buttery typing feel with a muted sound profile. Depending on personal preference for tactile feedback and sound levels, users can choose between these two switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and snappy, responsive feedback, opt for the Avocado. This switch provides a satisfying tactile sensation without being overwhelming, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and gummy linear switch with a deep and muted sound profile, the North Pole V2 is the way to go. It offers a unique typing experience with a chewy feel and subdued sound. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for tactility and sound characteristics in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
