Kailh Berry vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are numerous options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two notable linear switches in this realm are the Kailh Berry and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Kailh Berry switches are renowned for their hefty typing experience, providing a springy feel with a chalk-like texture when typing. These switches also emit a deep sound profile, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches offer a crisper typing experience due to the absence of a rubber dampener. Despite this change, the New North Pole V2 switches retain the frictionless typing feel that the North Pole lineup is known for, providing a polished and creamy typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing journey. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
The Kailh Berry and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those who value auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a vibrant RGB lighting experience, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Kailh Berry incorporates nylon, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 uses polycarbonate. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate's stiffness in the Gateron New North Pole V2's bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. These two materials offer contrasting sound profiles, allowing users to choose according to their preferences for typing experiences.
When it comes to typing experience, the differences in top and bottom housing materials play a significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The Kailh Berry's nylon bottom housing would provide a slightly duller and rounder bottom-out sound compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing, which would contribute to a sharper and more defined sound. Conversely, the top housing material has a stronger influence on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches, with their polycarbonate top housing, would impart a similar crisp and clear sound upon key release, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In summary, the Kailh Berry and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches share similar characteristics in terms of their top housing material, utilizing polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Berry's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate delivers a sharper and more resonant sound. Understanding how these materials impact the typing experience is crucial in choosing the switch that best suits an individual's preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it becomes clear that there are some differences between the two. The Berry's actuation force is currently unavailable, while the New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the New North Pole V2 requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Berry.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Berry has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means that the Berry switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience when fully pressing down compared to the New North Pole V2.
Considering weight's impact on typing experience, individuals may have different preferences. Some people prefer a lighter actuation force to allow for longer typing sessions without strain, which makes it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For them, switches with heavier forces would be the ideal choice.
In terms of weight, the New North Pole V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it suitable for those who prefer lighter keystrokes. The Berry's actuation force is currently unavailable, so it cannot be directly compared. However, since the New North Pole V2 has a lighter actuation force, it is likely that the Berry would provide a heavier typing experience in this aspect.
In summary, the New North Pole V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force compared to the Kailh Berry linear switch. This makes the New North Pole V2 more conducive to extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Berry switch may provide a heavier and more substantial typing experience when fully pressing down.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed down. In this case, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Berry switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the New North Pole V2 switch. The 4.0 mm travel distance is considered traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, there is a growing preference for shorter travel distances, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive experience, opting for the switch with the shorter travel distance would be ideal. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer the switch with the longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics. These switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, with a deeper and richer sound profile resembling bass tones. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is currently unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Kailh Berry switch provides a typing experience that is described as hefty and springy. It offers a textured feel, meaning there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others enjoy a smoother and friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is known for its polished and creamy feel. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. They offer a silky sensation, with keys effortlessly melting into each keystroke. Additionally, Gateron has maintained the seamless glide and smoothness that users have come to love from the North Pole lineup, providing a frictionless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, as well as a textured feel. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offers a polished and creamy feel, and although information on its sound profile is unknown, it is expected to provide a frictionless typing experience. If you are looking for a deeper and richer sound with noticeable friction, the Kailh Berry switch would be a good choice. If you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch would be a suitable option. It is important to remember that the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel of these switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry is slightly heavier at 70 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 62.5 grams. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience, the Berry may be the better choice for you.
In terms of sound, the Berry offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, characterized by a mellow and rich tone. On the other hand, the sound profile of the New North Pole V2 is not described, so it's hard to compare in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the Berry has a textured typing experience, which means there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys. This can be preferred by some users who enjoy a bit of texture. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. This means the keys have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a springy feel, along with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Berry may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, polished, and frictionless feel, with an unknown sound profile, the New North Pole V2 may be the better option. Consider your typing preferences and desired typing experience when making your decision.
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