Dareu Holly vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Holly and the Gateron New North Pole V2 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences among users. The Holly, a tactile switch, is known for its medium 50g actuation force and unique sound signature combining chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2, a linear switch, offers a crisper typing experience due to the absence of a rubber dampener while still retaining a frictionless typing feel that Gateron switches are known for. The Holly switch appeals to those looking for a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile, while the New North Pole V2 appeals to users seeking a smooth and polished typing feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Holly and Gateron New North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. However, while both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, they may differ in design and color options.
In contrast, the Dareu Holly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The choice of bottom housing material can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience, affecting both sound and feel.
It's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials will manifest differently in each switch. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. While both switches may use polycarbonate for the top housing, the different bottom housing materials in the Dareu Holly and Gateron New North Pole V2 will result in distinct typing experiences for users to consider when choosing between the two options.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch reveals some interesting differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Holly switch has a bottom out force of None grams, while the New North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This makes the New North Pole V2 the heavier option in terms of bottoming out force. The lighter actuation force of 50 grams in both switches would provide a similar typing experience in terms of triggering a keystroke, but the difference in bottom out force would result in a lighter typing experience with the Holly switch and a heavier one with the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight considerations.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. This may lead to a consistent typing experience, whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Holly or the smooth linear feel of the New North Pole V2. In conclusion, the travel distance of these two switches is the same, providing users with a reliable and familiar typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique mix of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a distinctive typing experience that stands out from traditional switches. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, with the removal of the rubber dampener, delivers a crisper typing sound. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Holly being described as chirpy and clacky, while the New North Pole V2 is known for its polished and creamy typing sound. Overall, the sound preference would depend on the user's personal taste and the setup of their keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Holly switch does not have specific descriptors available to outline its tactile feel, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, emphasizing a smooth and refined typing experience. The New North Pole V2 excels in offering a buttery and effortless typing sensation, thanks to factory lubing or specific materials used in its construction. Users who prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience would likely lean towards the New North Pole V2 for a premium feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holly provides a unique sound signature with its chirpy and clacky elements, while the New North Pole V2 delivers a crisp and polished typing sound. When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 stands out for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, setting it apart from the competition. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on the user's specific preferences for sound and feel, with both switches offering high-quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your priorities in typing experience. If you value a unique sound signature with a balance of chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium actuation force and a distinctive feel, the Holly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel, and don't mind a slightly higher bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
