Zuoce Lavender vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, some distinct differences emerge. The Lavender switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. It offers a crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy, with a deep and muted sound profile and a chewy typing feel. It is categorized as gummy, creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished. While the Lavender switch is known for being easy to press and clacky, the North Pole V2 switch offers a unique typing experience with its gummy feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron North Pole V2 both feature unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Lavender utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the North Pole V2 incorporates polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While POM is known for its pleasing sound, polycarbonate offers a more resonant and clear tone, making it ideal for those looking for a more distinct auditory experience when typing.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Lavender and the North Pole V2 share the common feature of utilizing clear housings. This transparency in the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. While POM may not offer the same visual effect as polycarbonate, it still provides a unique sound profile that some users may prefer over the sharper tones of polycarbonate. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetic qualities.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the qualities of POM and polycarbonate will be distinctly felt and heard throughout the typing process, offering a tailored experience based on the chosen switch. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted tones of POM or the sharper and crisper sounds of polycarbonate, both the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron North Pole V2 provide unique options for users seeking a customizable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, one significant difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the North Pole V2 switch requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the North Pole V2 switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel compared to the lighter and slightly easier to press Lavender switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lavender switch would be the better choice, while those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the North Pole V2 switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance compared to the Lavender. The difference may seem small, but it can make a noticeable impact on typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Lavender for quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the North Pole V2 for its longer travel distance. Both switches offer their own advantages, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a crisp and clacky sound signature, creating a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a deep and muted sound profile, giving a more subdued and dampened sound when activated. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Lavender being more percussive and bright, while the North Pole V2 is more subtle and muted, creating a unique typing experience depending on personal preferences, keycaps, and keyboard setups.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is best known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a responsive and low-impact typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished feel, providing a tactile sensation akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, along with a smooth and buttery typing experience due to lubrication or specific materials. These qualities give a unique and enjoyable typing experience that caters to different preferences of typing feel.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lavender provides a clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, the North Pole V2 offers a subdued sound profile and a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the Lavender being more percussive and bright, and the North Pole V2 offering a more unique and tactile feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and clacky typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gummy and muted typing feel with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing sound, feel, and actuation force. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so consider these factors carefully before making your choice.
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