Kailh Berry vs. Gateron North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the Gateron North Pole V2, both of which are linear switches. The Kailh Berry switches offer a typing experience that is known for its heftiness and springiness, providing a satisfyingly tactile feel. Additionally, the chalk-like texture adds to the overall typing experience. In terms of sound, the Berry switches produce a fairly deep profile. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer a different experience, with a delightfully gummy and chewy typing feel. The sound profile of the North Pole V2 switches is deep and muted, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. It is important to note that these are just generalities and personal preferences will ultimately play a significant role in choosing the best switch for each individual. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.25 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Gateron North Pole V2 keyboards are quite similar. Both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which provides a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetically pleasing element to the keyboards.

However, the main difference lies in the material used for the bottom housing. The Berry keyboard features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 keyboard utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well. This means that the qualities brought by the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.

Overall, while the top housing materials are the same for both keyboards, the difference in the bottom housing materials may result in slightly different sound profiles. The Berry's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. Nevertheless, the similarities in the top housing materials ensure that users will still achieve a similar level of clarity and resonance regardless of the keyboard they choose.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The actuation force of the Berry is unavailable, while the North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Berry at 70 grams and the North Pole V2 at 65 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy category.

The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly impact the typing experience. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This can be beneficial for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier actuation force, as it provides a more substantial push feel and a satisfying typing experience.

In terms of weight, the Berry switch does not disclose its actuation force, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, the North Pole V2 is lighter with a lower actuation force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Berry being slightly heavier at 70 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 65 grams.

In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Kailh Berry linear switch is unknown, it can be assumed that it may require a stronger push compared to the Gateron North Pole V2 with its actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a similar tactile experience. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter actuation force may opt for the North Pole V2, while those desiring a slightly heavier typing experience may prefer the Berry switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. Generally, 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.6 mm falls on the shorter end. For gamers looking for faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Berry switch may be more appealing. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness. However, it is important to note that both switches still provide a noticeable travel distance, ensuring a satisfying tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. These switches have a deep and mellow tone when pressed, which can be quite pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a more subdued sound experience. While not completely silent, they offer a dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The North Pole V2 switches have a deep and muted sound that adds to the overall typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, both switches provide satisfying sound profiles, with the Berry offering a deeper and bass-heavy tone, and the North Pole V2 offering a more subdued and muted sound.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a textured typing experience. This means that when pressed, there is noticeable friction or scratchiness. Some users prefer this slight texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free feel. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a gummy typing feel. This unique experience can be likened to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It offers a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a bouncy and lively feel. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switches can also provide a creamy and polished typing experience. Creamy switches have a smooth and buttery feel, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Polished switches, on the other hand, offer a sleek and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide distinct tactile experiences, with the Berry offering a textured feel and the North Pole V2 providing gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished sensations.

In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry has a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, while the North Pole V2 has a more subdued sound signature. In terms of feel, the Berry provides a textured typing experience, while the North Pole V2 offers a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished sensation. It's important to remember that individual preferences play a significant role, and the ultimate typing experience will also depend on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you're looking for a deep and mellow sound with some texture, the Berry is a great choice, whereas if you prefer a more muted sound with a range of tactile experiences, the North Pole V2 will likely suit your preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Berry and Gateron North Pole V2 are both viable options to consider. The Berry switches offer a springy and chalk-like texture when typing, providing a hefty typing experience. They also have a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, adding depth and richness to your typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switches offer a gummy and chewy typing feel, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. They also have a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened and more subtle sound when pressed. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Whether you prefer the textured and low-pitched typing experience of the Berry or the gummy and subdued typing feel of the North Pole V2, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more