Bsun Guyu vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Guyu and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, the key differences lie in their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Bsun Guyu is renowned for its unique auditory experience, featuring all-POM housings that deepen the acoustics and a long pole stem that creates a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. With a medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes, typing on the Bsun Guyu becomes an effortless glide with resonant feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is described as gummy, offering a deep and muted sound profile with a satisfyingly chewy typing feel. While the Bsun Guyu is characterized as clacky and snappy, the North Pole V2 is more subdued and bouncy in its tactile feedback. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the best switch for you. 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
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different materials. The Guyu's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound demonstrates how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the North Pole V2 allows for customizable RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic flair to the switch that the POM housing of the Guyu lacks.
When looking at the bottom housing of the switches, we see a similar pattern of differing sound profiles based on the materials used. The POM bottom housing of the Guyu creates a deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 produces a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction highlights how the housing material not only affects the sound of the switch but also the overall feel when typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the North Pole V2 further enhances the visual appeal of the switch, offering a contrast to the more solid look of the Guyu's POM housing.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Guyu and the Gateron North Pole V2 both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The POM housing of the Guyu provides a deeper and more muted sound, offering a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the North Pole V2 creates a sharper and crisper sound, appealing to those who prefer a more vibrant typing experience. Regardless of the differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Guyu is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the North Pole V2 is the heavier of the two, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The actuation force of the Guyu is lighter, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the North Pole V2 requires a slightly stronger push. In terms of bottoming out, the Guyu is also lighter, allowing for a softer landing when typing, whereas the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Guyu is ideal for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a slightly deeper keypress, providing a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts typing or gaming experience.
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 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Guyu linear switch offers a clacky experience with sharp and snappy sounds that are crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound profile is achieved through the combination of all-POM housings and a long pole stem, resulting in a unique and resonant typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a subdued sound with a deep and muted profile that offers a more subtle auditory experience. The Guyu switch emphasizes depth and clarity, while the North Pole V2 switch focuses on a chewy and gummy sound sensation. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Guyu linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience. The medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes, attributed to the high-grade UPE stem, provide an effortless glide with resonant feedback. This polished and silky feel enhances the overall smoothness of typing, creating a refined and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a gummy and bouncy typing sensation that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The creamy and polished attributes of the North Pole V2 switch contribute to a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and lively key rebound.
In conclusion, the BSUN Guyu linear switch stands out for its clacky and creamy sound and feel combination, offering a uniquely balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a subdued and gummy sound profile paired with a creamy and bouncy typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, catering to different preferences in sound and typing feedback. Whether you prefer the sharp and resonant sound of the Guyu switch or the deep and muted sound of the North Pole V2 switch, both options will provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Guyu linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Guyu if you are looking for a switch that delivers a unique auditory experience with a balance of depth and clarity. The Guyu switch offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing feel, making every keystroke smooth and effortless. On the other hand, opt for the North Pole V2 if you prefer a gummy, creamy, bouncy, or polished typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile. The North Pole V2 switch provides a satisfying chewy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of sound and feel you prefer while typing.
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