Gateron CJ vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ 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 Gateron CJ and the Gateron New North Pole V2 are two options worth considering. The CJ switch offers a unique and enjoyable linear typing experience, characterized by higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. It falls under categories like 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch distinguishes itself by providing a crisper typing experience and eliminating the rubber dampener found in its predecessor. Despite this change, Gateron has maintained the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, which is a frictionless typing feel. The New North Pole V2 switch is often described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless'. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Gateron New North Pole V2 have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, characterized as clacky. In contrast, the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials provide a higher-pitched sound, the CJ's INK blend offers a slightly less sharp and more satisfying clacky sound, while polycarbonate delivers a clearer and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Similarly, the housing materials for the bottom housings also differ between the CJ and the New North Pole V2 switches. The CJ features a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The POM housing in the CJ switch creates a unique and pleasing sound, but the polycarbonate bottom housing in the New North Pole V2 delivers a more distinct and clear sound due to its stiffer nature.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings have distinct roles in determining the sound and feel of a switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the CJ and the New North Pole V2 have differing top and bottom housing materials, this distinction ensures that their sound profiles remain distinct and varied, offering users a range of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that they have similar characteristics. Both switches require an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force needed to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience when using either switch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference between the two switches. The CJ has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the New North Pole V2 switch will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the CJ switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended typing sessions may opt for the CJ, while those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel may lean towards the New North Pole V2.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches travel from the top to the bottom by the same distance of 4mm, providing a consistent typing experience. Whether you choose the CJ or the New North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can be. When typing on the CJ switch, users can expect higher-pitched clacks, giving it a chirpy sound. This unique acoustic signature sets the CJ apart from other switches. In terms of feel, the CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel, offering a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone.
On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its crisper typing experience compared to its predecessor. Unlike the previous version, the New North Pole V2s no longer have a rubber dampener, allowing for a more tactile typing experience. Despite the removal of the dampener, the New North Pole V2s retain the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, which is a frictionless typing feel. This means users can expect a smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and seamless glide.
In terms of sound, there is no specific information available for the New North Pole V2 switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. That being said, both the CJ and New North Pole V2 switches are linear switches, so they are likely to produce similar sound profiles. If you enjoy the chirpy sound of the CJ switch, you can expect a similar result with the New North Pole V2 switch.
In terms of feel, the CJ switch offers a mild typing experience with a gentle push feel, while the New North Pole V2 switch provides a crisper and frictionless typing experience. The New North Pole V2 switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It is possible that the New North Pole V2 switch may have a creamy typing sensation, but specific information regarding lubricant application or materials used is unknown.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer unique qualities. The CJ switch provides a chirpy sound and a mild typing experience with an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch offers a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel and a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. While specific information on the sound and feel of the New North Pole V2 switch is not available, it is likely to provide a similar sound profile to the CJ switch due to their shared linear switch type. Ultimately, both switches provide enjoyable and seamless typing experiences that Gateron enthusiasts have come to love.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the characteristics and preferences that matter most to you. If you value a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, the CJ switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still maintaining a frictionless typing feel, the New North Pole V2 switch would be a great option. In terms of sound, the CJ switch offers a range of options from chirpy to neutral to low-pitched to thocky, providing a variety of acoustic signatures to suit different preferences. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 switch. When it comes to feel, the CJ switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, perfect for those looking for a gentle typing feel. The New North Pole V2 switch, on the other hand, offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, boasting smooth and refined key travel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. Consider what qualities are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with those preferences.
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