Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron New North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options for enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is praised for its clacky and bouncy feel, appealing to users looking for a satisfying typing feedback. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 by Gateron offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience without a rubber dampener, providing a crisper feel while maintaining smoothness. Both switches have their strengths and cater 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
POM
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
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both utilize different materials for their housing components, specifically in their top and bottom housing. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, known for creating a pleasing and unique sound with deeper tones, while the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent polycarbonate top housing of the New North Pole V2 allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing element to the switch.
On the other hand, the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 also produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, similar to its top housing. This difference in bottom housing material between the two switches further influences the overall sound profile and typing experience for users.
Despite their different housing materials, both switches showcase the impact of utilizing specific materials in different parts of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch, showcasing the importance of housing materials in keyboard switches.
Weight
In comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. While the Bubblegum switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 switch offers a medium level of resistance, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one values a lighter typing experience for extended periods or a more substantial keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum switch is better suited for those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch offers a longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to keypress feel, with the Bubblegum being shorter and the New North Pole V2 being longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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 Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. However, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback when typing. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 switch is known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. Users can expect a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel when using the Gateron switch.
Overall, while the sound characteristics of the two switches differ with one being clacky and the other unknown, both switches offer unique and desirable qualities in terms of feel. The Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy sensation, while the New North Pole V2 switch offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the snappy sound and lively feedback of the Bubblegum switch or the smooth, buttery feel of the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a light switch with a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a crisper typing experience and a frictionless feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch might be more fitting for your preferences. Consider the sound and feel descriptions as well when making your decision, as they can further guide you towards the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what characteristics resonate with you the most.
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