Gateron CM vs. Gateron North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that may catch your attention are the Gateron CM and the Gateron North Pole V2, both of which are linear switches. The CM switches stand out with their full nylon housing, breaking away from the conventional polycarbonate housings. This unique design not only delivers a richer, deeper sound signature but also provides an effortlessly smooth typing experience, making you feel like you're gliding gracefully with each keystroke. With lengthened, dual-staged springs, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switches are best described as gummy. They provide a satisfyingly chewy typing feel and create a deep and muted sound profile. While both switches boast a creamy and polished typing experience, the CM switches lean more towards a low-pitched, bassy sound, while the North Pole V2 switches offer a more subdued feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CM Linear

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CM and the Gateron North Pole V2 differ in their housing materials, with the CM featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, while the North Pole V2 has a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The use of nylon in the CM's housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the North Pole V2 results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that have RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic dimension to the switch.

While the top and bottom housings differ between the CM and the North Pole V2, the qualities of each housing material are split between the two. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the CM, the softer nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 produces a sharper and crisper sound. Conversely, the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. The nylon top housing of the CM absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when lifting a key, while the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 creates a clear and resonant sound when keys are released.

In terms of similarities, both the CM and the North Pole V2 utilize classic switch housing materials. While their characteristics may differ, both nylon and polycarbonate have unique advantages depending on the desired sound profile and aesthetics. Both materials are capable of producing distinct sounds, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound, and polycarbonate offering a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of translucent housings in either switch allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. Overall, although the specific qualities may vary, both the CM and the North Pole V2 offer unique sound experiences based on the choice of housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have a medium-heavy weight, which provides a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The Gateron CM linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. Despite these variances, both switches offer a similar level of resistance, allowing for reliable keystrokes. Whether one prefers the slightly lighter actuation force of the North Pole V2 or the slightly heavier bottom out force of the CM, both switches can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience, depending on individual preferences.

Travel distance

The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 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 CM. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the norm, while 3.0 mm is the shallow end. However, there is a growing trend towards shorter travel distances, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, it would be beneficial to choose the switch with the shorter travel distance, which in this case would be the CM. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key press that feels less abrupt, the North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. The deep and rich sound produced during key presses resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This switch also has a low-pitched sound, which adds a mellow and bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, it offers a dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch provides a buttery and polished typing experience. The switch delivers a smooth and fluid keystroke, giving a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation. This is achieved through materials used and factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the CM switch can be described as creamy, offering a silky sensation when typing. It feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a gummy feel. Typing on these switches gives a unique experience, as it feels like bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The North Pole V2 switch also has a creamy sensation, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience like the CM switch. It's worth mentioning that the North Pole V2 switch also offers a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation and providing rebound when pressed.

In summary, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its bold sound signature, with a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. It offers a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a deep and muted sound profile with a satisfying chewy typing feel. It has a gummy and creamy sensation, along with a bouncy feedback. While the sound and feel qualities of these switches differ, they both promise a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either of these switches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have their unique strengths and characteristics. The CM switch offers a rich and deep sound signature, with a bassy and thocky sound profile. The typing experience is described as buttery, polished, and creamy, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch provides a subdued sound with a satisfying chewy feel. It is also described as creamy and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch gives a bouncy feedback sensation, adding a lively feel to your keystrokes.

Based on the provided information, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. It provides a smooth and uniform typing sensation, making your typing journey feel like gliding gracefully with each keystroke.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more subdued sound signature and a satisfying chewy typing feel, along with a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be an excellent option. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, allowing your fingers to effortlessly melt into each keystroke.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider your desired sound profile, such as bassy or subdued, and the typing sensation you want, such as buttery or bouncy, to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more