Bsun Pine vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Pine and Gateron New North Pole V2 offer distinct typing experiences. The Bsun Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and precise feedback for those who prefer a straightforward typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is a linear switch that boasts a smoother typing experience without a rubber dampener, offering a polished and frictionless feel while typing. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making it important to consider your personal typing style and preferences when choosing between the two. 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
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and the Gateron New North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This makes them ideal for switches that prioritize clarity and resonance in their sound output, especially for those looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting. However, the Pine diverges with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a different typing experience.
The use of different bottom housing materials in the Bsun Pine and the Gateron New North Pole V2 significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches offer a clear and resonant sound profile with their polycarbonate top housings, the Pine's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, giving it a distinctive typing experience compared to the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in material composition showcases how varying components within a switch can influence sound and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Bsun Pine's housing materials provides a unique blend of sound profiles for both bottom-out and key release, offering a contrasting typing experience compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2's consistent use of polycarbonate. While both switches share the benefits of a clear and crisp sound profile from their polycarbonate top housings, the Pine's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller tonality that may appeal to users seeking a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams while the New North Pole V2 has a lighter bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the Pine switch requires a lighter touch to initiate a keystroke but provides a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed, whereas the New North Pole V2 offers a more consistent typing experience with its medium actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so users looking for similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces can consider either option depending on their preference for a lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster reactions. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 provides a deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, with the Pine being ideal for those seeking fast responsiveness and the New North Pole V2 catering to individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Pine switch is known for its unique and distinct sound profile, which results from the sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is recognized for its crisper typing experience due to the absence of a rubber dampener. While the specific sound characteristics of each switch may vary depending on factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material, both switches offer a satisfying auditory feedback to enhance the typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Pine switch is often described as having an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, providing a pronounced and responsive typing sensation. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is known for its polished and creamy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, the frictionless nature of the New North Pole V2 switch ensures minimal resistance and a fluid key travel, enhancing the overall typing comfort and ease.
Overall, while the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, both switches deliver a premium typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer the sharp tactility and quick bottom-out of the Pine switch or the smooth and frictionless feel of the New North Pole V2 switch, you can expect a high-quality and satisfying typing experience with either choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing feel you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and fast action with direct feedback, the Pine switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and frictionless typing experience without a rubber dampener, the New North Pole V2 switch could be more to your liking. Additionally, take into account the bottom out force of each switch – the Pine has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing feel and sound you desire in your mechanical keyboard.
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