Kailh BCP vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and the Gateron New North Pole V2 stand out as notable linear options, each offering unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Kailh BCP is celebrated for its innovative reimagining of the classic Black Cherry Pie switch, showcasing a creamy, elastic feel coupled with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that can enhance the typing experience. This makes the BCP ideal for users who appreciate tactile feedback and an engaging auditory experience. Conversely, the Gateron New North Pole V2, while shedding its predecessor’s rubber dampener for a crisper feel, upholds the hallmark frictionless glide familiar to Gateron fans. This switch is perfect for those who prioritize smoothness and swift keystrokes over sound and tactile response. Both options boast impressive qualities, ensuring that typists and gamers alike have something to consider; 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
52g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches illustrate contrasting approaches to housing materials, significantly influencing their acoustic profiles and overall typing experiences. The BCP features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound waves effectively and produce a rounder auditory experience. In conjunction, the nylon bottom housing similarly promotes the subdued sound characteristics associated with this material, creating a consistent sound signature across the switch. The nylon of the BCP clearly leans towards generating a warmer and more muted typing sound, which may appeal to users seeking a quieter, more subdued typing experience.
In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This material is markedly stiffer than nylon, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate's clarity allows sound waves to resonate more vividly, producing a tonal quality that is bright and defined. As these switches feature clear polycarbonate housings, they also offer enhanced aesthetics for users who prioritize RGB lighting effects. The combination of the stiffer material on both the top and bottom contributes to a distinct sound signature that is generally more vibrant and lively compared to the BCP.
Despite their differing material choices, both the Kailh BCP and Gateron New North Pole V2 can yield effective typing experiences, albeit with contrasting auditory characteristics. If one were to mix these switches, the perception of sound might vary depending on which housing is engaged during key presses and releases. The BCP's softer nylon can soften the overall sound, while the Gateron's polycarbonate can amplify it. Even with these variations, the execution of switch design ensures that both types maintain their respective desired aesthetics and auditory feedback, providing users with rich personalizations depending on the material combination they prefer for their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The BCP switch features an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for extended periods might lean towards the Gateron New North Pole V2, while those who enjoy a more substantial and heavier feel may favor the Kailh BCP. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces reflect the overall typing experience, with the BCP providing a firmer response compared to the slightly softer action of the Gateron switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there is a notable difference. The BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the New North Pole V2 measures 4 mm. This makes the BCP the shorter option, which can lead to a more responsive feel, often preferred by gamers who favor quick actions. In contrast, the New North Pole V2, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced depth, which some users might find more satisfying for typing or a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, if you're looking for faster response times, the Kailh BCP would be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a more substantial keypress experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 Kailh BCP switch is notable for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile. This auditory feedback can enhance your typing experience, giving each keystroke a satisfying auditory punctuation. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 features a crisper sound, which is accentuated by the removal of the rubber dampener present in its predecessor. This change contributes to a sharper auditory response, creating a sound that can be both clear and pleasing. As always, it's important to remember that the overall sound will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh BCP provides a creamy, viscous, and bouncy typing sensation that many users find deeply satisfying. The elasticity in the switch contributes to a dynamic and responsive experience, making it feel lively under your fingers. Meanwhile, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is characterized by its frictionless glide, polished finish, and creamy texture, all of which combine to create an effortlessly smooth typing experience. This lack of friction means that the keys respond fluidly, which can be especially beneficial for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming.
In conclusion, both switches deliver unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Kailh BCP excels in its clacky sound and bouncy feel, offering a lively typing experience, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 promotes a crisper auditory response alongside an impressively smooth and polished feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two will depend on whether you prioritize a more dynamic auditory experience or a silky-smooth typing motion, but either option will provide an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile experience with a unique bouncy, creamy feel, the BCP might be the better option for you. It provides a poppy and clacky sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, making it well-suited for those who appreciate an engaging auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, frictionless typing experience with a lighter touch, the New North Pole V2 is an excellent choice. Its polished finish ensures a refined feel with minimized resistance, allowing for effortless key presses. Although it lacks the dampening feature of its predecessor, its crisp sound profile and seamless glide will appeal to users who enjoy a more straightforward and smooth interaction with their keyboard. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you in terms of feel, sound, and overall typing experience when deciding between these two impressive switches.
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