Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron North Pole V2 are both excellent options to consider. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch that boasts a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, providing a seamless and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is also a linear switch but is described as 'gummy', offering a deep and muted sound profile and a satisfying chewy typing feel. While the Jupiter Red is more 'polished' and 'neutral', the North Pole V2 is 'bouncy' and 'subdued'. Both switches have their unique characteristics that may cater to different preferences in typing sensation. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Standard
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
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron North Pole V2, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its relatively stiff plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. However, the Jupiter Red stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
While the top housings of the Jupiter Red and North Pole V2 share similar qualities due to both being made of polycarbonate, the differentiation in their bottom housings creates a notable contrast. The Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile, offering a softer and more absorptive quality compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2. This distinction in bottom housing material highlights how different plastics can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, catering to various preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of sound and feel, the choice of housing material for switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is evident, with the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red offering a distinct typing sensation compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2. On the other hand, the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key showcases how the qualities of polycarbonate can contribute to a crisper and more resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Jupiter Red and North Pole V2 allows for a diverse range of tactile and auditory experiences for users to explore and enjoy.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires 60 grams of force while the North Pole V2 needs 65 grams, indicating the North Pole V2 is slightly heavier in this aspect as well. Both switches fall in the medium weight category, but the North Pole V2 leans towards the medium-heavy side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel while typing, the North Pole V2 could provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing force and bottom out pressure.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent key press experience in terms of the distance traveled from top to bottom. Whether typing on the Jupiter Red or the North Pole V2, the actuation point will be reached after pressing the key down the same 4 mm distance. Therefore, both switches offer the same level of tactile feedback and responsiveness to users, making them equally suitable for those looking for a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a more subdued sound, offering a quieter and more subtle typing experience. Both switches can deliver a pleasant auditory feedback, but the North Pole V2 may appeal more to those seeking a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing users with a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished feel, creating a unique yet satisfying typing sensation akin to bottoming-out on a trampoline or gliding effortlessly across keys. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, both switches excel in providing a seamless and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with a polished feel or a subdued sound with a gummy sensation, both switches are designed to enhance your typing efficiency and comfort. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, along with a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Jupiter Red would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, along with a gummy and satisfying typing feel, the North Pole V2 would be the more suitable option. Additionally, consider the sound and feel profiles of each switch to ensure they align with your preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and feel.
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