Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2 are two mechanical keyboard switches that both offer unique features and advantages. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is renowned for its exceptional value and gaming capabilities. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, granting users a competitive advantage. Moreover, the vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, illuminates your gaming setup and adds an exhilarating auditory element with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the North Pole V2, also a linear switch, offers a delightful and satisfying typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile, reminiscent of the word "gummy." This switch provides a chewy typing feel that is guaranteed to enhance your overall typing experience. Each switch offers unique characteristics and advantages, making them ideal choices for different preferences and purposes. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Thus, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from these two switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon material, while the North Pole V2 sticks to polycarbonate. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the North Pole V2's bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. While the impact of the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing will play a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key.
In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2 employ polycarbonate top housings, resulting in similar sound profiles and compatibility with RGB lighting. The key difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizing nylon for a deeper sound while the North Pole V2 opts for polycarbonate to achieve a more resonant tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the desired sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a noticeably higher bottom out force of 65 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the better choice as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for quicker and easier keystrokes. This lightweight characteristic makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue can be reduced.
In contrast, the North Pole V2 offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. With a higher bottom out force, users will feel a greater sense of feedback and resistance when pressing down on the keys. This can be appealing to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel when typing.
It's worth noting that while the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the North Pole V2 differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer a smooth linear feel. This means that regardless of the force required, users can still achieve similar results in terms of key travel and overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, whether one prefers a lighter and more effortless typing experience or a heavier and more tactile one.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distances 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. Whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Thus, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
The Gateron 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 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 Silver switches have a deep and rich bassy sound profile. The lower frequency range of these switches gives a pleasing depth and richness to the sound, resembling bass tones. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a low-pitched sound, which adds to the overall mellow and bass-heavy tone. When pressed and released, these switches produce a satisfying thocky sound, akin to a deep "thud" or soft "knock". On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, these switches provide a dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a buttery typing experience. The keystrokes with these switches feel smooth, fluid, and effortless, providing a uniform typing sensation. They can also be described as creamy, as they offer a silky sensation when typing. This can be attributed to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switches. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches have a gummy feel. Typing on these switches gives a unique experience, similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. They also have a creamy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switches are bouncy, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation during typing. Lastly, they have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches provide a bassy, low-pitched sound with a satisfying thocky sound profile. They also offer a buttery and creamy typing experience, ensuring smooth and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switches have a subdued sound, giving a more dampened and subtle sound signature. They offer a gummy feel with a unique typing experience and a creamy, bouncy, and polished feel. Based on these qualities, users can expect distinct sound and feel characteristics depending on their choice of switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers exceptional gaming performance, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the way to go. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a shorter travel distance, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving you a competitive advantage in gaming. Additionally, the RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add an exciting visual and auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and muted sound profile with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is a great choice. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy typing experience. Furthermore, they are described as gummy, which provides a unique typing sensation similar to bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Overall, whether you prioritize gaming performance or typing experience, both switches have their own strengths and can cater to your specific preferences.
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