Durock Light Tactile vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron North Pole V2. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is highly regarded for its gentle tactility, providing a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found on the market. Typing on these switches offers an angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 from Gateron is known for its gummy linear feel. When typing on these switches, users can expect a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy typing feel. While the Light Tactile switch is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the North Pole V2 is described as gummy, creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron North Pole V2 keyboards share a common feature in their polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a satisfying audio feedback while typing. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it perfect for incorporating RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards.
However, when it comes to their bottom housings, the Light Tactile and North Pole V2 differ. The Light Tactile employs a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This choice maintains the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate, ensuring consistency in both the typing and release sound.
Overall, while the Light Tactile and North Pole V2 keyboards may use different materials for their top and bottom housings, the general qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon are similar. Both materials contribute to a more distinct sound experience, with polycarbonate emphasizing sharpness and clarity, while nylon offers a deeper and fuller tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards will depend on personal preference for either a crisper or a more rounded sound, both encompassing the satisfaction of a tactile typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Light Tactile is slightly lighter at 52 grams, compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams. However, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range of actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Light Tactile is slightly heavier at 67 grams, while the North Pole V2 weighs in at 65 grams. Both switches again fall within the medium-heavy range for bottom out force.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Light Tactile may be a better choice with its slightly lighter actuation force. This would allow for longer periods of comfortable typing, which can be advantageous for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a slightly stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a heavier switch and enjoy a tactile feedback.
In summary, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ slightly between the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron North Pole V2, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range. Choosing between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference, with the Light Tactile offering a slightly lighter feel and the North Pole V2 providing a slightly stronger push.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. Therefore, pressing down on a key with either of these switches will result in a similar tactile experience. Both switches offer a comfortable travel distance that allows for precise and satisfying keystrokes. Whether it is the Light Tactile or the North Pole V2, users can expect a consistent travel distance that enhances their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral profile. It produces a moderate sound when pressed, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings such as home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is described as subdued. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It provides a dampened sound when pressed, creating a deep and muted sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Light Tactile switch from Durock is known for its mild and polished qualities. It offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The North Pole V2 switch, on the other hand, is described as gummy, meaning it provides a unique typing experience similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, it is also described as creamy and bouncy. Creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, while bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel. Similar to the Light Tactile switch, the North Pole V2 also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle and angelic tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature. It offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a delightful linear experience with a chewy typing feel. It offers a deep and muted sound profile, along with creamy, bouncy, and polished qualities. Both switches have their unique qualities and can cater to different preferences. However, if you are looking for a similar sound and feel as the Light Tactile switch, the North Pole V2 can provide a comparable experience with its subdued sound and gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're looking for a switch with a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile switch is a great option for you. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and provides an angelic tactility when typing. Additionally, its sound profile is described as neutral, making it suitable for most purposes and environments. The Light Tactile switch also has a mild and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is the one for you. It has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams, which is still medium-heavy. The North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy typing experience, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It also provides a creamy and bouncy feel, giving you a smooth and elastic feedback sensation while typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a gentler tactility, neutral sound profile, and a mild and polished feel, go for the Light Tactile. However, if you enjoy a linear switch with a deep and muted sound, a gummy and creamy feel, along with a bouncy sensation, the North Pole V2 is the switch for you. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience before making your final decision.
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