HMX Deep Navy vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves deliberating between the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both linear switches that offer unique tactile experiences. The HMX Deep Navy switches stand out with their full nylon construction and a rich, sharp sound profile that adds an auditory dimension to typing. Designed for a silky smooth feel with every keystroke, these switches are ideal for users who appreciate a luxurious typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 focuses on delivering a crisper and more frictionless typing experience, thanks to the absence of a rubber dampener seen in its predecessor. This allows for seamless gliding that maintains the beloved smoothness Gateron is known for, catering well to those who favor precision and responsiveness. Ultimately, each switch brings its own personality to the table, influencing your overall typing experience in distinctive ways. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy switches and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches, the differences in sound profiles and materials become quite pronounced. The HMX Deep Navy features a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its softer texture. This material tends to absorb sound rather than reflect it, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The nylon's inherent sound-dampening qualities create a duller and rounder sound profile that many typists find satisfying, particularly for those who appreciate a quieter typing environment. This is in stark contrast to the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches, which are equipped with polycarbonate top housings. The polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, yields a sharper, crisper sound that resonates well, giving users a brighter and more pronounced auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches have unique sound profiles due to their differing housing materials, the Deep Navy is suited for those seeking a muted experience, whereas the New North Pole V2 caters to those who prefer a more vibrant sound.

The differences between the bottom housings of these switches further enhance their respective sound characteristics. The Deep Navy’s nylon bottom housing maintains the softer, fuller sound profile initiated by its top housing, contributing to a consistent auditory experience that minimizes harshness. This harmonious relationship between the materials allows the Deep Navy to deliver a pleasant typing feel, with tactile feedback that is smooth and less jarring. Conversely, the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing supports the sharper sound of its top, intensifying the overall clarity and resonance of the switch. The firmer material results in a more impactful bottom-out sound, making the typing experience more dynamic compared to its nylon counterpart. Therefore, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in how each switch performs both acoustically and tactilely.

Ultimately, though the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches utilize different materials for their housings, the way these materials interact contributes to distinct user experiences. If the top and bottom housings are of the same material, the resulting sound profile would likely exhibit a uniform character, effectively combining the qualities of both parts. However, with the Deep Navy and New North Pole V2 featuring mismatched materials, users can expect contrasting auditory outcomes and tactile sensations. The Deep Navy delivers a cohesive, muted sound, while the New North Pole V2 provides an engaging and higher-pitched experience. Thus, the interaction between different materials in a switch illustrates the nuanced ways sound and feel can be tailored in mechanical keyboards, catering to diverse preferences among typists and gamers alike.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces stand out. The Deep Navy has a notably lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Consequently, if you seek a lighter switch for extended use, the Deep Navy would be preferable, while the New North Pole V2 would suit individuals looking for added resistance and feedback in their keystrokes. Overall, the differences in these force measurements highlight the distinct experiences each switch offers.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Deep Navy switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the New North Pole V2 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional length. This difference in travel distance suggests that gamers or users who prioritize rapid key response might gravitate towards the Deep Navy, as its shorter travel can provide a quicker actuation. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the New North Pole V2, appreciating its deeper travel which can feel more satisfying. Thus, while both switches serve their unique purposes, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is rich and sharp, thanks to its full nylon construction, which contributes to a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. This sharpness can offer a substantial feedback element that many typists find enjoyable. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches provide a crisper typing sound due to the absence of a rubber dampener, which distinguishes them from their predecessor. The absence of this dampener allows for a more direct sound with less muffling, appealing to users who prefer the clarity of each keystroke. However, both switches will be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap material, making their sound ultimately dependent on individual setups.

When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is noted for its smoothness, which can be significantly enhanced by the high-quality materials and construction. This gives each keystroke a sense of silky ease that typists often seek in a quality linear switch. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2s excel with their polished and creamy feel, ensuring a refined typing experience with minimal friction. The frictionless typing quality of the New North Pole V2 contributes to an exceptionally fluid keystroke, capitalizing on the seamless glide recognized throughout the North Pole lineup. Together, these characteristics create an effortlessly smooth typing environment that many users admire.

In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches present unique auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy offers a rich sound and smooth feel, providing an engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, the New North Pole V2 excels with its crisp audio profile and frictionless, polished typing sensation. Depending on your personal taste in typing sound and feel, either switch can lead to a gratifying experience. Ultimately, trying both can give you a better understanding of which aligns with your individual preferences in a mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a lighter touch and appreciate a rich sound profile, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice, providing a smooth, silky feel with every keystroke while also delivering a satisfying audio experience. This switch is perfect for users who prefer quick and effortless typing, making it an appealing option for gamers or those who engage in fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer, more controlled typing experience, the New North Pole V2 is better suited for you. Its medium bottom-out force offers more resistance, which can help with tactile feedback, making it a great choice for typists who appreciate a crisp and polished feel while avoiding the mushiness sometimes associated with lighter switches. Additionally, the frictionless design of the New North Pole V2 provides a buttery smooth glide that could appeal to those who crave extremely smooth key presses without detracting from their overall typing precision. In essence, choose the Deep Navy for a lightweight, sound-rich experience, and the New North Pole V2 for more feedback and a polished touch in your typing endeavors.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more