HMX Cheese vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch to the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy, providing a deep and muted sound profile with a chewy typing feel. While the HMX Cheese switch is lighter than 90% of all switches, the North Pole V2 offers qualities such as being creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics. The Cheese's nylon top and bottom housing provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. While the Cheese focuses on creating a softer typing experience, the North Pole V2 prioritizes a more vibrant and pronounced sound quality.
However, despite their differences, the Nylon top and bottom housing of the HMX Cheese and the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Gateron North Pole V2 both contribute to a unique typing experience. The nylon housing of the Cheese elicits a deep and full sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the North Pole V2 produces a sharp and crisp sound. Both materials have their own advantages, with nylon providing a softer feel and absorbing more sound, and polycarbonate offering a clearer and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
In terms of aesthetics, the translucent quality of polycarbonate in the top housing of the North Pole V2 allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. In comparison, the opaque nature of the nylon housing in the Cheese may not offer the same level of customization with RGB lighting. Additionally, the different sound profiles created by the two housing materials may also play a role in the decision-making process for users looking to enhance their typing experience with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is lighter while the North Pole V2 is medium-heavy. The actuation force of the Cheese is 43 grams, whereas the North Pole V2 requires 50 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Cheese needs 46 grams, but the North Pole V2 bottoms out at 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cheese may be the better choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the North Pole V2 with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cheese switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the North Pole V2 switch. The shorter travel distance of the Cheese switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 switch may provide a more satisfying depth when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
The HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, offering a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its subdued sound, providing a more muted typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Cheese switch is described as smooth and light, while the North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy typing feel, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch provides a creamy, bouncy, and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and refined feel with each keystroke.
Overall, when choosing between the HMX Cheese and Gateron North Pole V2 switches, it's important to consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a lighter and crispy sound along with a pristine typing experience, the Cheese switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound with a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished typing feel, the North Pole V2 switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to test them out firsthand to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a light touch with a clacky and poppy sound, the HMX Cheese switches would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more muted sound with a chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer an ultra-light, smooth typing experience or a gummy, creamy feel with a subdued sound profile. Make your choice based on what typing sensation and sound signature you value the most.
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