Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron New North Pole V2, there are some key differences to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its heavy and substantive typing experience with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a more robust feel. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, maintaining a frictionless typing feel that the North Pole series is renowned for. While both switches offer unique characteristics and advantages, such as the G Pro's vibrant RGB lighting and the New North Pole V2's smoothness, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron New North Pole V2, we can see distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. In contrast, the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the switch.
On the bottom housing side, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM material creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a unique tonal quality. Conversely, the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed, emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing in shaping the bottom-out sound experience.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Gateron New North Pole V2 each have unique top and bottom housing materials, the qualities brought by these materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of each housing material is felt differently when pressing down on the switch versus letting go of a key. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics based on their housing materials, creating a personalized typing experience for users depending on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we can see some key differences. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's lighter 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams of force, while the New North Pole V2 needs 62.5 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black a bit heavier overall in both actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black, while those who prefer a lighter touch may find the New North Pole V2 more to their liking. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will get a similar tactile feedback in terms of travel distance. Both switches provide a consistent and reliable typing experience due to their identical travel distances. Overall, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Black or the New North Pole V2, you can expect a similar key press feel in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky and subdued characteristics, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a medium-high pitch. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is not provided, but it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and balanced typing experience with medium-heavy actuation and bottom-out forces. Meanwhile, the New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a refined and slick typing feel without a rubber dampener. Both switches seem to offer a smooth typing experience, emphasizing glide and smoothness for effortless key presses.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the New North Pole V2 focuses on a crisper feel without a rubber dampener. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with premium features at budget-friendly prices. Choosing between the two switches would ultimately come down to personal preference on sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, along with a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still maintaining a seamless glide and smoothness, the New North Pole V2 would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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