HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron New North Pole V2 are two notable options to consider. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. With a visually striking glittery housing and a satisfying clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz offers both aesthetic appeal and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 boasts a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still maintaining the frictionless and smooth typing feel that Gateron switches are known for. Categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky' for the Blue Topaz, and 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless' for the New North Pole V2, each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics.
In terms of aesthetics and sound performance, both the Blue Topaz and the New North Pole V2 benefit from the sharp and clear sound profile created by their polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate allows for a crisper sound when pressing down on the switch, as well as when letting go of a key. However, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing offers a contrasting experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound output of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron New North Pole V2 will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound and feel. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the Blue Topaz's inclusion of a nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the New North Pole V2's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing may appeal to those seeking a sharper and crisper sound. Regardless of which switch is chosen, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound quality of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the New North Pole V2 is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Topaz may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use at work or during gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the New North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing feel, which may be preferred by those who desire a stronger push when typing. Overall, selecting between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances but offer a slightly different typing experience. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy noise when activated. This sound is known to be crisp, bright, and percussive, adding an extra level of satisfaction to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch's sound profile is unknown. However, it is important to note that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, providing a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to actuate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue over extended use. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and refined finish, effortless keystrokes akin to gliding across the keys, and a fluid travel with minimal resistance.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a lightweight and smooth typing experience with a clacky sound signature, ideal for those who prioritize ease of use and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 focuses on delivering a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel for users who seek a refined and buttery typing sensation. While their sound profiles and tactile experiences differ, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and can provide similar results depending on individual preferences and setup choices.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you value a light actuation force and a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force with a polished, creamy, or frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your typing experience will greatly depend on the switch you choose, so make sure to prioritize what feels best for you.
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