Dareu Master vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Master switch from Dareu is an all-POM linear switch that strikes a medium weight, providing users with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness during operation. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 from Gateron is lauded for its gummy typing experience, featuring a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfyingly chewy typing feel. While the Master switch is classified as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the North Pole V2 boasts categories like 'Gummy', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different typing preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and Gateron North Pole V2 both showcase different housing materials for their switches, with the Master featuring POM top and bottom housings, and the North Pole V2 utilizing polycarbonate for both top and bottom. The POM housing of the Master creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the North Pole V2 produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the switch.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the material used for the bottom housing. The Master's POM bottom housing continues to contribute to the deeper and more muted sound profile of the switch, while the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with polycarbonate. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, impacting the overall typing experience.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Master and Gateron North Pole V2 may differ in material, they each contribute unique qualities to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether it's the pleasing and unique sound of POM or the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate, both housing materials bring their own distinct characteristics to the typing experience, catering to different preferences and preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Master is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the North Pole V2 at 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the North Pole V2 is 65 grams, making it heavier than the Master, whose bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Dareu Master for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may choose the Gateron North Pole V2 for its heavier push feel. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and preference of the user.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master 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 slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master. The difference may not be significant, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the North Pole V2 more to their liking. However, if a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, the Dareu Master would be the better option. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the North Pole V2 being more standard at 4.0mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Dareu Master linear switch is known for its classic clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile, with a deep and muted sound that adds to the typing experience. Depending on your preference, the Master switch will give you a more crisp and bright sound, while the North Pole V2 switch will offer a more subtle and dampened sound. Both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Master leaning towards a sharper sound and the North Pole V2 offering a more muted sound, suited for quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy and creamy, giving a unique typing experience with a trampoline or gummy bear-like bottoming-out feel. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch provides a bouncy feedback sensation, giving keys a lively and elastic feel. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and comfortable typing experience, with the Master switch being more gentle and polished, while the North Pole V2 switch providing a unique and bouncy typing feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch each have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Master switch leans towards a clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, while the North Pole V2 switch offers a subdued sound and a gummy, creamy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing sensation, both switches will provide a satisfying experience, with the Master offering a sharper sound and a more refined feel, and the North Pole V2 delivering a more subdued sound and a unique, bouncy feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium weight linear switch with a classic clacky sound and smooth operation, the Dareu Master linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a gummy and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, then the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing preferences and priorities in sound and feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and enjoy a customized typing experience.
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