Bsun Jade Rosales vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the distinctions between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the Gateron New North Pole V2 can be pivotal. The Bsun Jade Rosales switches, meticulously crafted by XY Studio, stand out for their exceptional smoothness and refined feel, achieved through a year of development that focused on custom housings, stems, and advanced lubrication techniques. These linear switches provide a buttery-smooth typing experience that many enthusiasts crave, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize a serene and fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches, while also linear, offer a crisper typing experience, as they have eliminated the rubber dampener found in their predecessor. This change not only amplifies the frictionless glide that the North Pole lineup is known for but also caters to users who enjoy a more responsive and direct feedback during typing. Both switches have their merits: the Jade Rosales for its plush smoothness and the New North Pole V2 for its sharp clarity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Jade Rosales and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches share a commonality in their top housing, both made from polycarbonate. This choice of material is significant as it contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate enhances sound clarity and resonance, resulting in an engaging auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making both switches aesthetically pleasing for users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. Therefore, when it comes to sound output during key release, users can expect a similar auditory quality from both switches due to their shared top housing materials.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, with the Bsun Jade Rosales featuring a proprietary Custom Milky Material, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 also utilizes polycarbonate. The Jade Rosales's unique blend might introduce distinct characteristics to its bottom-out sound and the overall tactile feel of the switch. While both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the proprietary material found in the Jade Rosales may lead to a different impact on how the switch performs during actuation. This divergence in the bottom housing materials signifies that while the auditory experience during key release is similar, the tactile response and bottom-out sound may vary noticeably when pressing the switches down.
Ultimately, the different bottom housing materials create a balanced contrast between the two switches. Users can expect the resonance and clarity of the top polycarbonate housing to be consistent, yet the overall experience will be influenced by the bottom housing characteristics. This means that while the sound profile during release is aligned, the tactile feedback and bottom-out sensation is where users will notice the variance. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch could be favored, with the Jade Rosales potentially providing a unique experience due to its Custom Milky Material bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch to the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Jade Rosales switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 boasts a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium category. This means that while the Jade Rosales is easier to press, making it advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, the New North Pole V2 offers a more substantial tactile experience due to its heavier forces. Ultimately, if a user prefers a lighter feel, the Bsun Jade Rosales is the better choice, whereas those seeking a firmer push will lean towards the Gateron New North Pole V2.
Travel distance
The Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This 0.5 mm difference indicates that the Jade Rosales is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. In contrast, the New North Pole V2, with its more traditional 4 mm travel distance, could be preferable for those who enjoy a deeper feel and a less abrupt key press. Consequently, if responsiveness is a priority for you, the Jade Rosales may be the way to go; but if you favor a more substantial key travel experience, the New North Pole V2 would likely suit you better.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 sound profile of the Bsun Jade Rosales switches is notably absent from the specified information, leaving a gap in understanding how they might perform acoustically compared to other options. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are characterized by a crisp sound signature, attributed to the removal of the rubber dampener from their predecessor. While the precise acoustic qualities of the Jade Rosales switches remain unknown, users can expect a distinctive auditory experience from the New North Pole V2, influenced by the choices made in board and keycap selection.
When it comes to feel, the Jade Rosales switches are celebrated for their smooth typing experience, suggested to be highly refined through custom housings and lubrication techniques utilized during their development. This careful attention to detail provides a luxurious typing sensation that many may find preferable. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are described as possessing a polished and creamy feel, featuring a frictionless glide that minimizes resistance during keystrokes. The combination of these characteristics leads to a sleek and almost effortless typing experience, aligning closely with the smoothness touted by the Jade Rosales switches.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Jade Rosales and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches promise a smooth and refined typing experience, although their sound profiles differ, with the New North Pole V2 clearly delineated. For those prioritizing a buttery, frictionless feel, both options may deliver satisfying results, but the precise qualities of the Jade Rosales remain an unknown element. Ultimately, selecting between these switches may come down to personal preference and the overall typing experience you seek, considering the external factors like keycap and board choice that will also influence the final sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches ultimately hinges on your specific preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-light actuation force and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Jade Rosales switches would suit you well. They are ideal for those who appreciate a refined and buttery feel, making them a great option for lengthy typing sessions or for those who enjoy a softer touch. On the other hand, if you have a preference for a firmer keypress with a more crisp and frictionless typing experience, the New North Pole V2 is the way to go. With their slightly higher bottom-out force and polished, creamy feel, these switches will provide an engaging experience that many find satisfying, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing. In summary, choose the Jade Rosales for a smooth, lighter feel and the New North Pole V2 for a polished, medium force experience that emphasizes control and clarity.
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