Huano Grape Orange vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron New North Pole V2 offer compelling options for users who enjoy a linear typing experience. The Grape Orange stands out with its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize effortless typing, especially during long hours of use. Its lightness can reduce finger fatigue, allowing for prolonged productivity without discomfort. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 enhances the linear experience by providing a crisper typing feel that sets it apart from its predecessor, thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener. This switch still maintains the signature frictionless glide of the North Pole lineup, offering a smooth and polished typing surface that many users have come to appreciate. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they each deliver unique benefits that can greatly influence your typing style and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches, both models utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which significantly influences their acoustic performance. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches is designed to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's rigidity. This inherent stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, making both switches appealing for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing or gaming activities. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, which is a common aesthetic preference among gamers and keyboard enthusiasts.

However, the bottom housing materials diverge between the two switches, setting them apart in terms of sound signature and tactile feedback. The Grape Orange switch features a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound effectively and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing, mirroring the properties of its top housing and thus maintaining a consistent sharper and crisper sound characteristic throughout the full switch. Consequently, the Grape Orange is likely to deliver a more muted and rounded auditory experience when bottoming out, while the New North Pole V2 achieves a more cohesive sound profile driven by its polycarbonate construction on both ends.

Ultimately, the variance in the bottom housing creates differing experiences when typing on each switch. The Grape Orange's nylon bottom provides a plush, sound-dampening effect that results in a softer landing, enhancing comfort during long typing sessions. Meanwhile, the New North Pole V2 maintains the sharper sound profile from top to bottom, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback that might appeal to those who enjoy tactile clicks and a crisp response. Nevertheless, users can achieve a similar aesthetic outcome with both switches due to the polycarbonate top housing, especially when integrated with RGB lighting, allowing for a vibrant and visually engaging setup irrespective of the acoustic differences.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 has a higher actuation force at 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to those who enjoy a firmer feel while typing or gaming. This means the Grape Orange is the lighter option, while the New North Pole V2 is the heavier switch. The disparity in forces indicates that users seeking a more subdued typing experience may gravitate toward the Grape Orange, whereas those wanting a more substantial key press might prefer the New North Pole V2.

Travel distance

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Grape Orange switch allows for a more responsive feel, appealing to gamers or users who prefer quicker key presses. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 with its 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial feedback, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a deeper key press. Therefore, while both switches are linear and designed for smooth operation, the Grape Orange offers a shorter travel distance, promoting swifter reactions, whereas the New North Pole V2 offers a longer, potentially more satisfying depth for users seeking a more traditional typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound characteristics, the Huano Grape Orange switch's auditory profile remains unspecified, but it typically allows for a softer, more muted sound that many users appreciate for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is noted for its clear and crisp output, especially following the removal of the rubber dampener found in its predecessor. This design aspect contributes to a more defined sound with each keystroke, making it potentially more satisfying for users who prefer auditory feedback while typing. However, it should be noted that the overall sound quality can vary dramatically depending on the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and typing technique.

Regarding the tactile experience, the Grape Orange is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force, resulting in a highly effortless typing sensation ideal for long periods of use. This makes it suitable for users who seek a switch that allows for rapid, fatigue-free input. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 distinguishes itself with descriptions of being polished, creamy, and frictionless. This combination results in a typing experience that feels incredibly smooth and fluid, minimizing resistance and ensuring that each keypress glides seamlessly into the next. The meticulous design of the New North Pole V2 switches is aimed at enhancing comfort and ease during usage, possibly even rivaling the light and easy feel of the Grape Orange.

In conclusion, while both the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches provide exceptional typing experiences suited for different preferences, the Grape Orange shines through its light actuation and effortless usability, while the New North Pole V2 brings a polished, creamy, and frictionless touch. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes an ultra-light force or a velvety, smooth typing sensation. Users can achieve a desirable experience with either switch, but the nuances in sound and feel will cater to different typing styles and preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your typing preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you prefer a light typing experience that facilitates extended sessions, the Grape Orange is your best bet with its light 40g actuation force and a bottom-out force of just 50 grams. This makes it ideal for tasks like writing, coding, or any prolonged typing where comfort is a priority. Additionally, if you appreciate a switch that offers an effortless feel and buttery smoothness, the Grape Orange excels in that department. On the other hand, if you desire a more tactile and crisper response with a bit more resistance as you type, the Gateron New North Pole V2 might be more suited for you, thanks to its medium 62.5g bottom-out force. With its polished and frictionless feel, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and refined typing experience, especially for gaming or fast-paced manual tasks where quick feedback is essential. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the lightness and ease of the Grape Orange or the more tactile and responsive characteristics of the New North Pole V2.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more