Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics and benefits for users. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its budget-friendly excellence, providing a polished and high-pitched typing experience along with a fairly bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a delightful and gummy typing experience, with a deep and muted sound profile that is accompanied by a satisfying chewy typing feel. Both switches offer a creamy and polished feel, but the North Pole V2 also has a subdued quality. Ultimately, choosing the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 have similar housing materials in terms of the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing makes these switches particularly useful for those who want to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup, as the material's translucency allows for more vibrant lighting effects. This similarity ensures that users can expect a clear and resonant sound profile when typing on both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the North Pole V2.
However, the major difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing. This distinction impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 complements the sharper and crisper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing. Its stiffer plastic enhances the clear and resonant sound, providing a satisfying typing experience.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the material of the bottom housing will affect the overall tactile experience. Conversely, the top housing's influence is more noticeable when releasing a key. Therefore, while the top housings of both switches are similar and contribute to a consistent sound profile, the bottom housings differentiate the two in terms of the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches. This ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight variation between the two switches. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Gateron North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out compared to the North Pole V2 switch.
In terms of weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch more suitable. With its slightly lower bottom out force, it allows for a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch might be the better option.
Overall, the differences in bottom out force between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches provide users with choices based on their personal preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron 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 feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience, ensuring that your keystrokes are registered accurately. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches offer distinct profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its higher-pitched clacky sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 produces a deep and muted sound, offering a more subtle and subdued sound signature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a better choice, while the North Pole V2 provides a more subdued sound.
In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the North Pole V2 switches offer smooth and buttery experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is described as polished and creamy, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on these switches provides a sleek and refined sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Similarly, the North Pole V2 also boasts a creamy feel, offering a silky sensation and smooth typing experience. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switches have a gummy and bouncy characteristic, providing a unique and elastic feedback sensation with lively key movements. Both switches offer a delightful typing feel, making it a matter of personal preference whether you lean towards the polished and creamy experience of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the gummy and bouncy feel of the North Pole V2.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a higher-pitched and clacky sound with a polished and creamy typing feel, the North Pole V2 offers a deep and muted sound along with a gummy, bouncy, and creamy typing experience. It's important to consider individual preferences when choosing between these switches, as the sound and feel play crucial roles in the overall typing experience. However, it's worth noting that both switches offer smooth and buttery typing experiences, ensuring satisfying keypresses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, as well as a polished and creamy typing feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile and a typing feel that is described as gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished, then the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Take into consideration the specific sound and typing experience you desire to make your selection. Whether you prefer the clacky and bouncy feel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the deep and chewy feel of the North Pole V2, both switches offer their unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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