Bsun Guyu vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Bsun Guyu and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Bsun Guyu stands out for its distinctive auditory experience, thanks to its all-POM housings and long pole stem that create a bright, crisp sound. The medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes make typing effortless and pleasant, with a unique sound signature that combines depth and clarity. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 offers a crisper typing experience with the removal of the rubber dampener while maintaining the frictionless feel that users love. Both switches offer a polished and creamy typing experience, but the Guyu is also clacky and snappy, while the V2 is categorized as frictionless. 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The Bsun Guyu and Gateron New North Pole V2 both feature POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing. The POM top housing on the Guyu creates a deeper, more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing on the New North Pole V2 produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, with POM providing a smoother and softer feel compared to the stiffer and clearer sound of polycarbonate. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the New North Pole V2.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Guyu and New North Pole V2 feature POM and polycarbonate options. The POM bottom housing on the Guyu maintains the deeper, more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing on the New North Pole V2 contributes to the sharper and crisper sound. Both materials have specific qualities that impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more resonant sound, while POM provides a smoother keypress experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of switches with RGB lighting.
Overall, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom of a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the keypress. The combination of POM and polycarbonate in the Guyu and New North Pole V2 splits the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the pleasing and unique sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both materials offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Guyu is lighter compared to the New North Pole V2. The Guyu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming, the Guyu would be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the New North Pole V2 with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Guyu has a shorter travel distance compared to the New North Pole V2. The Guyu's shorter travel distance might be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times, while the New North Pole V2's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their distinct travel distances. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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
The Bsun Guyu linear switch stands out for its unique auditory experience, offering a bright and resonant sound with a crisp bottom-out thanks to its all-POM housing and long pole stem. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, while lacking a rubber dampener like its predecessor, still maintains a smooth and frictionless typing feel that Gateron switches are known for. Both switches provide a distinct sound signature and a smooth keystroke experience, with the Guyu offering a creamy glide and the New North Pole V2 providing a polished and frictionless feel.
When it comes to sound, the Guyu switch is characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound, while the sound profile of the New North Pole V2 is not specified. In terms of feel, the Guyu switch offers a creamy and snappy sensation, while the New North Pole V2 provides a polished and frictionless typing experience. Despite the differences in sound and feel descriptions, both switches promise a smooth and effortless typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve a similar level of satisfaction with either option. Ultimately, choosing between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch will come down to personal preference for sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the BSUN Guyu linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following factors. Opt for the BSUN Guyu if you value a unique auditory experience with a brighter, crisper bottom-out sound and super-smooth keystrokes. The medium weight of the Guyu complements its intricate balance of elements, providing an unmatched typing rhythm. On the other hand, go for the Gateron New North Pole V2 if you prefer a frictionless typing feel and a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener. The smooth and effortless typing experience offered by the New North Pole V2, along with its polished finish, make it a great choice for those seeking a sleek and refined typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.
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