Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a crucial role in optimizing your typing experience. The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron New North Pole V2 are both linear switches that cater to different user desires, albeit sharing some similarities in their smooth operation. The Jupiter Red is celebrated for its medium-heavy actuation and seamless, uninterrupted keystroke, thanks to its single-stage spring design and high-precision molds. This results in a typing experience that many find polished, silky, and mildly neutral, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a consistent and smooth feel while typing or gaming. Conversely, the New North Pole V2 distinguishes itself with a crisper typing experience, emanating from the removal of the rubber dampener found in its predecessor, yet it retains the frictionless glide integral to the North Pole lineup. While both switches offer their own unique characteristics—one favoring a softer touch and the other promoting a more pronounced feedback—each caters to distinct preferences in the realm of linear switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$2.80 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The sound profiles of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are influenced significantly by their top housings, both composed of polycarbonate. This shared material undeniably contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisp and resonant. Polycarbonate’s rigidity allows for more clarity in sound, which is particularly advantageous for users who prioritize an appealing auditory experience in their typing. Additionally, both switches utilize translucent housings, enhancing the visual aesthetics when paired with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory experience from the top housings of both switches, leading to a comparable engagement with lighting features.

In contrast, the differences in the bottom housings give each switch a distinct character in terms of sound profile. While the Jupiter Red employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its deeper and fuller sound characteristics due to its sound-absorbing nature, the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. This choice brings with it the sharper, crisper sounds experienced in the top housing. Consequently, when typing on the Jupiter Red, the sound and feel of the switch will resonate with a more rounded and deeper tone owing to the nylon, while the New North Pole V2 will retain a consistency in sound across both top and bottom with its polycarbonate structure.

Overall, the combination of materials in the Gateron switches illustrates the importance of both top and bottom housings in shaping the overall typing experience. The Jupiter Red offers a more contrasting sound between the housing materials, potentially satisfying those who appreciate a variety in auditory sensation. In contrast, the New North Pole V2’s homogeneity stemming from its polycarbonate construction delivers a uniform experience in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preference, these contrasting materials allow users to select switches that align best with their typing style—whether they favor a dynamic auditory experience or a consistent one.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Jupiter Red features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the Jupiter Red is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer a less forceful typing experience that can facilitate extended periods of use, such as in long gaming sessions or at work. Conversely, the New North Pole V2 caters to those who favor a firmer push, resulting in a more substantial feel during typing. Overall, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces provide distinct tactile experiences tailored to individual preferences regarding force feedback.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on the keys of keyboards equipped with either switch. This equal travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience, making them comparable in terms of depth and feedback during use. Consequently, users will find that both switches deliver the same level of key response, enhancing their overall performance and comfort while typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red has a neutral profile characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office. It is ideal for users seeking a balance that doesn't draw attention or become distracting. In contrast, the sound qualities of the Gateron New North Pole V2 are currently unknown, though the absence of a rubber dampener suggests it may offer a different auditory experience. The sound performance of any switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap choice, so users must account for these variables.

In terms of feel, both switches present a luxurious typing experience. The Jupiter Red is polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined feel that minimizes resistance during keystrokes. This results in a pleasant tactile experience that many typists will appreciate, allowing for a seamless and gentle touch. The New North Pole V2 shares these qualities, described as polished and creamy, while additionally emphasizing its frictionless typing experience. Therefore, users looking for smooth key travel will receive satisfying results from both switches, with the Jupiter Red leaning slightly towards a whole-bodied typing feel and the North Pole V2 excelling in an effortless glide.

Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches both excel in providing a smooth typing experience, but they differ in their sound profiles and specific nuances in how they feel. While the Jupiter Red offers a neutral sound and a mild actuation force, the New North Pole V2 introduces a crisper sound due to the absence of a rubber dampener. However, both switches deliver a highly polished and creamy typing experience. Therefore, those selecting between them can expect high-quality performance in feel, with the decision largely revolving around their preference for sound characteristics and the type of typing experience they desire.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you're looking for a smooth, polished keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Jupiter Reds are an excellent choice. Their creamy, silky feel makes them ideal for those who prioritize a seamless and consistent typing experience, whether for casual work or gaming. However, if you want a crisper and more frictionless feel that still retains smoothness, the New North Pole V2 might be the better option. While both switches provide a polished typing experience, the North Pole V2’s lack of a rubber dampener offers a sharper feedback, which can be engaging for users who enjoy a more dynamic response. Ultimately, if you enjoy a smooth, soft, and creamy typing sensation, opt for the Jupiter Red; but if you prefer a clean and frictionless glide that emphasizes quick actuation, the New North Pole V2 is your go-to.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more