Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches from Gateron, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron New North Pole V2. Both switches offer distinct features and advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch designed with delicate typists in mind. It boasts an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, ensuring effortless and sensitive keystrokes. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 is also a linear switch but with a crisper typing experience. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer has a rubber dampener, resulting in a more tactile feel. However, the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, the frictionless typing feel, is still present in the V2. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them a great choice, but let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch is the best fit for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings. Because of this, they share similar qualities when it comes to sound profiles and aesthetics. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is especially beneficial if you plan to use RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a more visually appealing experience with the light effects.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the New North Pole V2 incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon bottom housings are well-known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the G Pro 3.0 White and the New North Pole V2 provide different sound experiences due to their varying bottom housings. While both switches benefit from the sharpness and clarity brought by the polycarbonate top housing, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, while the New North Pole V2 maintains a consistent sound profile throughout with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Therefore, your choice may depend on whether you prefer a rounder sound or a more uniform sound across your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in weight. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch during typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for users who crave a firmer typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences and typing style when selecting between these switches. While the G Pro 3.0 White offers a lighter overall weight for extended typing sessions, the New North Pole V2 provides a medium-weight option for those who desire a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on the user's desired typing experience and the level of force they prefer.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience when using these switches. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying travel distance, allowing for comfortable and precise typing or gaming performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. This produces a crisp and bright auditory feedback when typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is unknown, as no specific descriptors are provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is recommended to consider these factors when choosing a switch for desired sound characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a creamy and easy-to-press typing experience. The creamy characteristic suggests a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, similar to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the switch has a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue. It provides a low-impact and responsive typing feel. The New North Pole V2 switch, on the other hand, is described as polished and potentially creamy. A polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The overall typing feel of the New North Pole V2 is frictionless, offering a fluid travel sensation.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its clacky sound and creamy, easy-to-press feel, providing a satisfying auditory feedback and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished and potentially creamy, offering a frictionless and smooth typing experience. While the sound profile of the New North Pole V2 is unknown, it is important to consider other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps to achieve desired sound characteristics. Overall, both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing users to select based on their desired sound and feel experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its incredibly light actuation force of only 45 grams, this switch offers effortless and sensitive keystrokes, making it perfect for delicate typists. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a premium typing feel without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if you value a crisper typing experience and a frictionless feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be better suited for your needs. Unlike its predecessor, these switches no longer have a rubber dampener, resulting in a more tactile and precise typing experience. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener, the New North Pole V2s retain the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, which is a frictionless typing feel. Gateron has ensured that these switches maintain a seamless glide and smoothness that users have come to love.
Considering sound, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a clacky, neutral, or subdued sound profile, providing options based on your preference. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 doesn't have a specific description of its sound profile, so it may be best to consider external reviews or try it out firsthand if sound is an important factor for you.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a range of descriptors including creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. These descriptors highlight the smooth and low-impact typing experience that the G Pro 3.0 White provides. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. This indicates a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch depends on your specific preferences. If you prioritize a light actuation force and budget-friendly option, the G Pro 3.0 White is the way to go. However, if you prefer a crisper typing experience and a frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 would be better suited for you. Remember to consider the sound and feel descriptors to determine which switch aligns with your typing preferences.
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