Gazzew LT vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, finding the perfect switch is essential for a comfortable and satisfying typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the Gazzew LT and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both of which are linear switches. The Gazzew LT stands out with its captivating lilac hue and offers an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness, giving typists an immersive and satisfying sound. Furthermore, the LT switches provide a seamless glide with every keystroke, ensuring smooth and effortless typing. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 ditches the rubber dampener found in its predecessor, resulting in a crisper typing experience. However, despite this change, Gateron has maintained the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup by offering a frictionless typing feel. The New North Pole V2 switches deliver a polished and creamy typing experience that users have come to love. While these general pointers can help you get started in choosing the perfect switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew LT Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.50 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Gateron New North Pole V2 differ in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Gazzew LT utilizes a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housing. This soft material contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prefer a softer, more mellow typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 features polycarbonate housings for both its top and bottom. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is favored by users looking for a more precise and intense typing sensation.

In terms of aesthetics, the Gateron New North Pole V2 has an advantage due to its polycarbonate top housing. This material is translucent, allowing for the use of RGB lighting, which can enhance the visual appeal of the keyboard setup. The Gazzew LT, on the other hand, does not have the same level of translucency in its top housing, making it less suitable for users seeking to showcase vibrant RGB effects.

While the Gazzew LT and the Gateron New North Pole V2 differ in their housing materials, they do share similarities. Both switches utilize proprietary blends of plastic in their bottom housing, which contribute to a rich and deep sound profile. Additionally, although the specific sound characteristics may vary, both switches benefit from the individual qualities of their respective housing materials, enhancing the overall typing experience for users. Whether one prefers the softer and mellower sound of the Gazzew LT or the sharper and crisper sound of the Gateron New North Pole V2, both switches offer unique options for keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the LT's value is currently unavailable, while the New North Pole V2 requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Both switches can provide a medium level of actuation force, which can be suitable for many typists and gamers.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the LT switch has a force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 has a lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which is also in the medium range. So, in terms of the bottom out force, the LT is slightly heavier than the New North Pole V2.

Considering weight is important due to different preferences. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force to type for extended periods, which is beneficial for work or long gaming sessions. For those seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, heavier forces are preferred. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, allowing for a balance between fatigue and the desire for a more tactile feel during typing.

In conclusion, while the specific actuation force of the LT switch is currently unknown, comparing it to the Gateron New North Pole V2, we can see that they provide similar results with medium actuation forces. However, the LT switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force, making it a slightly heavier option than the New North Pole V2.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the New North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The New North Pole V2 falls into the more traditional range of 4.0mm, providing a deeper feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the LT offers a shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. So, if you are looking for a switch with a more responsive feel, the LT would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a more substantial and deeper travel distance, the New North Pole V2 would be the ideal option. Either way, both switches provide a different experience, catering to different preferences and needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The LT switches are well-known for their enticing lilac hue and provide an auditory symphony of deep, resonant "thockiness". The sound can be characterized as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile with each key press. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches no longer have a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience. However, the switch maintains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, which is a frictionless typing feel. Although specific sound qualities of the New North Pole V2 are unknown, Gateron has maintained the seamless glide and smoothness that users love.

In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT switches do not have any specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. A polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, feeling like effortlessly gliding across the keys with each keystroke. Finally, frictionless switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gazzew LT linear switches offer a deep and resonant sound profile with a seamless glide, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches provide a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel. Although specific sound qualities and feel are not provided for the LT switches, it is clear that both switches have their unique strengths. Whether you prefer the bassy and thocky sound of the LT or the polished, creamy, and frictionless feel of the New North Pole V2, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience. Pairing these switches with a suitable keyboard and keycaps can further enhance the sound and feel, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, resonant thocky sound profile, the Gazzew LT switches would be a great choice. These switches offer a seamless glide and a satisfying auditory experience, making typing a delight. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches would be a suitable option. These switches provide a frictionless typing feel and maintain a seamless glide and smoothness. Depending on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel, you can choose between the LT and New North Pole V2 switches to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more