Gateron Luciola vs. Gateron North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Luciola and the Gateron North Pole V2. These switches provide distinct typing experiences and have their own unique features that cater to different preferences. The Luciola, known for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, offers a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing feel. Its sound profile is often described as resembling the shaking of a can of spray paint. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is characterized by a gummy typing feel and a deep, muted sound profile. It provides a satisfying chewy sensation while typing. Both switches boast a polished finish, but beyond these generalities, it's essential to dive deeper into their specific qualities to determine the best switch for your individual needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Gateron North Pole V2 offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings both provide a satisfying clacky sound that is not overly sharp. This blend creates a thin and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a unique auditory experience. In contrast, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate top and bottom housings produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those seeking a more defined sound. Overall, while the Luciola and North Pole V2 may have different housing materials, they both offer satisfying sound profiles, albeit with varying degrees of sharpness and pitch.

In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials also play a role. The Luciola's INK blend produces an opaque finish, not allowing for any translucency or visibility of the switch internals. In comparison, the polycarbonate material used in the North Pole V2's housing is transparent, making it perfect for those who want to showcase their switches through the use of RGB lighting. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for vibrant and eye-catching lighting effects, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the Luciola and North Pole V2 housing materials depends on individual preferences regarding both sound and aesthetics.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the housing material of the bottom housing plays a significant role. The bottom housing of a switch has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Both the Luciola's proprietary INK blend and the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing contribute to the overall tactile experience of the switch. However, the top housing, which differs between the two switches, has a more noticeable effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect a variation in the sound profiles produced by the Luciola and North Pole V2 switches depending on whether they are pressing or releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches promise a satisfying keystroke experience, with the thickness and pitch of the sound being the main distinguishing factor.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some noticeable similarities and differences. Both switches fall into the medium weight range, but the Luciola has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams. This means that the Luciola requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the North Pole V2 is heavier with a force of 65 grams, while the Luciola bottoms out at 60 grams.

For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, the Luciola may be preferable as it requires less force to actuate the keys. This can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions when fatigue may become a factor. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. This can appeal to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing.

Ultimately, both switches offer a medium range actuation force and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience for users. Whether one prefers a slightly lighter or heavier touch largely comes down to personal preference. Regardless of the choice, the Gateron Luciola and Gateron North Pole V2 switches ensure a satisfying and responsive typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Luciola. In terms of traditional standards, both switches fall within the range, with the North Pole V2 being closer to the average of 4.0 mm. However, with the growing trend of shorter travel distances for faster response times, the Luciola's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers who prioritize quick and accurate keystrokes. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer the deeper and more substantial feel of the North Pole V2's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and whether one prefers a shorter and more responsive experience or a longer and more substantial keystroke depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola switch is best described as having a "hollow can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. This means that when you press the keys, you can expect a distinctive and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a more subdued sound. It is described as producing a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. So, while the Luciola has its unique clacky and chirpy sound, the North Pole V2 delivers a quieter and more muffled typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola switch is known for its smooth and bouncy typing feel. This switch provides a medium heft, giving it a satisfying tactile feedback when pressed. It can be described as snappy, buttery, and polished, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Conversely, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a unique typing experience described as gummy. When bottoming out, it feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. This switch is also known to be creamy, providing a smooth and effortless sensation while gliding your fingers across the keys. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch has a bouncy and polished feel, giving your keystrokes a spring-like and elastic feedback. Overall, both switches offer enjoyable and distinctive tactile experiences.

In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola and Gateron North Pole V2 switches have their own subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola has a clacky and distinctive sound, while the North Pole V2 offers a more subdued and dampened sound. In terms of feel, the Luciola provides a smooth, bouncy, and polished typing experience, while the North Pole V2 offers a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished feel. Depending on your preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences. However, it is important to note that individual keyboard setups and personal preferences can also impact the overall typing experience. So, while the Luciola and North Pole V2 switches may differ in their subjective qualities, they both have the potential to provide similar results if they align with your specific preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a unique and eye-catching feature in your keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its ability to glow in the dark, it adds a visually appealing element to your keyboard setup. In terms of sound, the Luciola offers options such as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched, providing a range of crisp and distinctive sound profiles.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound and a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be the better option for you. The North Pole V2 switch has a bottom out force that is slightly heavier than the Luciola, offering a medium-heavy typing experience. It is described as producing a dampened sound when pressed, giving you a more subtle sound signature.

In terms of feel, the Luciola switch provides a snappy and buttery typing experience, thanks to its responsive and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch is known for its gummy and creamy typing feel, offering a unique sensation akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch depends on your preferences. Consider whether you value glowing switches and a range of sound profiles (Luciola) or a more subdued sound and unique typing feel (North Pole V2) when making your decision. In the end, both switches offer their own distinct advantages, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more