Bsun Pine vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the BSUN Pine and Gateron North Pole V2 offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing clear-cut feedback and fast action. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is a linear switch with a gummy and creamy typing feel, accompanied by a deep and muted sound profile. While the Pine switch offers a no-nonsense tactility, the North Pole V2 provides a more subdued and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your preference for tactile feedback or smooth linear action. 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
65g
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
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and Gateron North Pole V2 both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Pine uses nylon while the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper profile of polycarbonate.
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and Gateron North Pole V2, it's important to note how the different characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon impact the overall typing experience. The combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Pine splits the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing's softer nature and sound-absorbing properties affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the stiffer polycarbonate top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing results in a more uniform sound profile across the entire switch.
In terms of material composition, the Bsun Pine and Gateron North Pole V2 showcase the differences in sound profiles that can be achieved with varying housing materials. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the Pine's addition of a nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the North Pole V2's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing maintains a more consistent sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired sound experience, with the Pine offering a unique blend of materials for a more varied typing sound, while the North Pole V2 provides a more uniform sound profile with its all-polycarbonate construction.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equal in terms of heaviness when fully pressed down. However, the Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams. This means that the Pine switch requires less force to register a keystroke, making it more sensitive and potentially better for quick typing or gaming sessions where a light touch is preferred. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a slightly stronger push feel with a higher actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Pine switch. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches provide different options for users based on their preferences for travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a quicker response or a more pronounced keypress feel.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Pine tactile switch is known for producing a sharp and distinct sound due to its unique tactile bump and long pole stem, creating a direct and no-nonsense auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature that is deep and muted. Both switches offer different sound experiences that cater to varying preferences, with the Pine switch delivering a crisper sound and the North Pole V2 offering a more understated acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Pine switch is characterized by its sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, resulting in a typing sensation that is accentuated by a prominent level of tactility and a quick bottom-out. The North Pole V2 linear switch, on the other hand, offers a gummy and creamy typing feel that is smooth and buttery, reminiscent of bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. While the Pine switch provides a snappy and sharp typing experience with intense feedback, the North Pole V2 switch offers a bouncy and polished feel that is characterized by a spring-like rebound and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provide distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and fast action, appealing to those who prefer a direct and precise typing feedback. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch offers a more subdued sound profile and a gummy, creamy typing feel that is smooth and enjoyable. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, ensuring a satisfying and personalized choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a sharp tactile bump, direct feedback, and quick bottom-out, the Pine switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gummy, chewy typing feel with a subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 switch would be a better fit for you. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch would best suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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