Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw, a linear switch, and the Gateron New North Pole V2, also a linear switch, a few key differences stand out. The Keygeek Raw is known for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon in its construction to create a delightfully creamy yet lightweight switch. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 from Gateron offers a crisper typing experience without the rubber dampener of its predecessor, while still maintaining a frictionless typing feel. The Keygeek Raw is categorized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subtle', while the New North Pole V2 is described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, offering a starting point for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches or a smooth typing experience with a polished 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the sound and feel of the switches. The Keygeek Raw's Nylon & UPE blend top housing is exclusive to their switches, offering a distinctive sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound quality due to its stiffness. Both materials lend themselves well to RGB lighting due to their translucency, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw features a UMPE & Si blend while the Gateron New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Both materials contribute to the sound profile of the switches, with the stiffer polycarbonate in the Gateron switches providing a clear and resonant sound profile. The blend in the Keygeek switches adds its own unique characteristics to the sound and feel of the switches. This difference in bottom housing materials can have an impact on the overall sound and feel of the switches, with each material offering its own unique qualities.
While the Keygeek Raw and Gateron New North Pole V2 differ in their housing materials for both the top and bottom, they both aim to provide a unique sound profile for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The exclusive blends of Nylon & UPE in the Keygeek switches and the use of polycarbonate in the Gateron switches offer distinct advantages in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal. Despite the differences in materials, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and provide users with a satisfying sound and feel when typing.
Weight
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch both have medium bottom out forces, with the Keygeek Raw being slightly lighter at 57.5 grams compared to the New North Pole V2 at 62.5 grams. However, the actuation force of the Keygeek Raw is unknown, while the New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Keygeek Raw switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, while both switches have similar bottom out forces, the decision between the two comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the New North Pole V2. The difference may seem small, but it can significantly impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw for faster response times, while others may find the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 to provide a more satisfying and substantial keystroke. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their respective travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the Keygeek Raw and the New North Pole V2 switches offer a neutral profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a moderate sound level that should be neither too loud nor too quiet, accommodating most preferences. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Raw switches provide a textured and mild typing experience, offering a subtle resistance that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches boast a polished and creamy feel, delivering a smooth and buttery typing sensation that is effortless and enjoyable. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant typing experience, with the Keygeek Raw leaning towards a slightly textured feel and the New North Pole V2 offering a more refined and frictionless touch.
Overall, while the Keygeek Raw and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches differ slightly in their tactile qualities, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a slightly textured feel with the Keygeek Raw or a smooth and creamy touch with the New North Pole V2, you can expect similar levels of comfort and performance from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and which typing feel aligns best with your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a slightly textured and mild typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 could be more to your liking. Both switches offer medium bottom out forces, so it ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize a unique material blend and slightly textured feel (Keygeek Raw) or a crisper typing experience with a creamy and polished feel (New North Pole V2). Make your choice based on your personal typing preferences and enjoy the switch that suits your style best.
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