HMX Lucky vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX Lucky switch is celebrated for its lightweight feel and softer, glittery nylon housings, which provide a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch distinguishes itself with its lack of a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper and more responsive typing feel. This switch also maintains the frictionless glide that the North Pole series is known for, appealing to users seeking a smooth and polished experience. While both switches are linear and cater to different preferences—whether softness and neutrality with the Lucky or the enhanced responsiveness of the New North Pole V2—their unique characteristics cater to varied typing styles. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches differ significantly in the materials used for their housings, impacting both the sound and feel experienced during use. The HMX Lucky switch features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory experience. This characteristic enhances the tactile feeling of the switch, creating a typing experience that is softer and more subdued. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, noted for its stiffness and translucency. This material induces a sharper, crisper sound profile, providing a clearer auditory feedback that can be particularly enjoyable for users who prefer a more pronounced acoustic response in their typing.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences in sound profiles between the two switches remain apparent. The HMX Lucky’s nylon bottom housing continues the trend of softness, fostering a deeper and richer sound that aligns with the characteristics of its top housing. This further reinforces the muted auditory experience when the key is bottomed out. Conversely, the Gateron New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which solidifies its higher-pitched and more resonant sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for a more pronounced feedback upon keypress, contributing to a brighter and more engaging typing experience. As both designs utilize different materials for their bottom housings, their unique characteristics can enhance the overall typing experience in varied ways.
Ultimately, while the HMX Lucky and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches utilize distinctly different materials for both their top and bottom housings, the variation in auditory output is a result of this material choice. The nylon components of the Lucky will produce a softer, bass-heavy sound, while the polycarbonate materials used in the New North Pole V2 give rise to a brighter, more resonant tone. If these switches had matched housing materials, similar acoustic outcomes could be anticipated, providing users with either the subdued, rich sound of nylon or the clear, sharp articulation provided by polycarbonate. Therefore, when selecting between these two switches, one must consider not only material differences but also personal preference toward sound and feel during the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, a clear distinction emerges in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, offering a more substantial feel for users who enjoy a stronger push during key presses. This difference means that the Lucky switch is the lighter option, while the New North Pole V2 is the heavier one, appealing to users with varying preferences for typing dynamics. Ultimately, if you're looking for a lighter and more forgiving typing experience, the HMX Lucky switch would be the way to go, whereas the Gateron New North Pole V2 is suited for those who appreciate a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, the HMX Lucky boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 features a travel distance of 4 mm. This slight difference means that the Lucky switch may provide a more responsive feel, appealing to gamers who favor quicker actuation and faster response times. In contrast, the longer 4 mm travel of the New North Pole V2 may cater to users who prefer a more substantial key press, offering a deeper, more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference: opt for the HMX Lucky for a snappier feel or the Gateron New North Pole V2 for a more robust and pronounced keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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, the HMX Lucky linear switch is likely to produce a softer acoustic profile, ideal for users seeking a quieter experience while typing. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches provide a crisper sound that resonates slightly more than their predecessor, thanks to the absence of a rubber dampener. This change allows for a more pronounced auditory feedback, giving each keystroke a cleaner and sharper note. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound can also depend on factors such as the choice of keyboard case and keycaps, which may influence how these qualities are perceived in practice.
In terms of feel, the Lucky switch is known for its neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, which is likely enhanced by its softer, glittery nylon housings. This provides a smooth and slightly cushioned key press that many users appreciate. The New North Pole V2, on the other hand, boasts a polished and creamy typing sensation. The switch's frictionless characteristic contributes to an exceptionally fluid typing experience, making it effortless to transition between keystrokes. The enhanced smoothness combined with the sleek design results in a high-quality, satisfying tactile feedback that may attract users who prioritize a refined typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches have distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a softer, more muted typing experience, the Lucky switch might suit you well. Conversely, if you favor a snappier sound and an exceptionally smooth, frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 could be the better choice. Ultimately, you have the potential to achieve a satisfying typing experience with both options, but your decision may hinge on whether you value auditory crispness and a more pronounced keystroke or if you prioritize a plush, buttery touch in your typing routine.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light touch and enjoy a more neutral, deeply satisfying typing experience, the Lucky switch may be the better option for you. Its lower actuation force of 43 grams allows for faster key presses and can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions. This makes it ideal for those who type extensively or engage in fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance and are looking for a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 with its 62.5-gram bottom out force would serve you well. The enhanced crispness and smooth glide of the New North Pole V2 are perfect for users who favor a refined feel and reliability in their key presses, especially in scenarios requiring precision. In the end, your decision should balance the weight you prefer for key presses and the tactile feedback you find most satisfying, guiding you towards the switch that best complements your individual needs.
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