Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron New North Pole V2 are both fantastic options to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, is known for its budget-friendly price tag and smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 is also a linear switch but stands out from its predecessor by removing the rubber dampener. This removal provides a crisper typing experience without sacrificing the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup – a frictionless typing feel. Gateron has ensured that the seamless glide and smoothness users love are maintained. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron New North Pole V2 share similar characteristics. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, it is in the bottom housing where these switches differ. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Its relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to its overall sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
When using these switches, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the choice between nylon and polycarbonate bottom housing can greatly affect the tactile experience when pressing down on the keys. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users may notice a difference in sound and feel between the two switches, particularly during key presses and releases.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron New North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top housing, providing a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal. However, the choice of bottom housing material – nylon for the G Pro 3.0 Red and polycarbonate for the New North Pole V2 – creates a distinction in the sound and feel of the switches. The nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Users should consider their preference for sound and tactile feedback when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we see some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the New North Pole V2 requires 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a force of 50 grams, while the New North Pole V2 requires a slightly heavier force of 62.5 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a suitable choice as it requires a lower actuation force. This not only allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes but is also ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming periods where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly heavier actuation force, giving users a more substantial push feel during typing. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a tactile feedback or those who desire a more satisfying resistance while typing.
It is worth mentioning that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, they both offer a comparable typing experience as the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Red matches the actuation force of the New North Pole V2. As a result, users can expect similar overall typing feel and responsiveness from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch comes down to personal preferences regarding the desired actuation and bottom out forces for a customized typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience in terms of the distance you feel. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the New North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most users and purposes. Whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, or whether you plan to use these switches at home or work, the G Pro 3.0 Red will provide a satisfying and comfortable auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch are unknown, as no specific information is available.
Regarding feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. With its smooth and buttery feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch provides a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The switch is also mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch enhances smoothness and reduces friction during key travel. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is not mentioned, so we cannot provide a direct comparison.
Overall, both switches are praised for their smooth typing experiences and lack of friction. While the sound characteristics of the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch are unknown, it can be inferred that it shares similar qualities in terms of feel with the G Pro 3.0 Red switch based on the available information. Both switches are known for providing a frictionless typing feel, ensuring a seamless glide and smoothness during use. Therefore, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a switch without a rubber dampener for a crisper typing experience, the New North Pole V2 may be worth considering, especially if you value the frictionless feel that Gateron is known for.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is the switch for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it provides a comfortable typing experience without causing fatigue. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is the better choice. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener, it retains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, which is a frictionless typing feel. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it offers a medium feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and feel.
Mentioned in this article
