Durock Medium Tactile vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Durock Medium Tactile is renowned for its unique tactile experience, featuring a pronounced yet balanced tactility that enthusiasts adore. Additionally, this switch boasts a jelly-like sound signature, adding a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 offers a different appeal. With the removal of the rubber dampener found in its predecessor, this switch provides a crisper typing experience while still maintaining the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup: a frictionless typing feel. Gateron's dedication to seamless glide and smoothness ensures that users will love the effortless typing experience provided by this switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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 15.4mm
Housing materials
The Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory experience while using their keyboard. Additionally, both switches' top housings are translucent, which makes them perfect for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the polycarbonate top housings of these two switches.
In contrast, the Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to its effect on the top housing. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a tactile typing experience that can be felt when pressing down on the switch.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the top and bottom housings play different roles. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that the differences between the nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 will be noticeable during typing. However, since both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics when it comes to the sound produced upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force for the Medium Tactile is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare to the New North Pole V2's force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Medium Tactile is 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the bottom out force for the New North Pole V2 is slightly lighter at 62.5 grams, still within the medium range.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the New North Pole V2 might be more suitable due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel during typing may prefer the Medium Tactile, as its higher bottom out force provides that extra resistance and feedback.
It is worth noting that while the actuation force for the Medium Tactile is unknown, it is possible that it falls within a similar range to the New North Pole V2. This means that individuals seeking a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation force could potentially achieve similar results with either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired tactile experience during typing.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a tactile or linear feedback respectively, but their travel distance remains consistent at 4 mm. Therefore, whether you choose the Durock Medium Tactile or the Gateron New North Pole V2, you can expect a comparable travel distance when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is best described as having a jelly-like sound signature. This indicates that it produces a unique and bouncy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is unknown based on the given information. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but also by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Durock Medium Tactile switch provides a medium amount of tactility, described as accented and stepped. This means that it offers a noticeable but balanced tactility with a mild feel. Additionally, the Medium Tactile switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that ensures a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is also described as polished, suggesting a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction. Furthermore, it is described as creamy, which implies that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. The switch is said to have a silky sensation, allowing for effortless gliding across the keys. Additionally, the New North Pole V2 switch is described as frictionless, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers pronounced yet balanced tactility, a jelly-like sound signature, and a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch provides a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, a frictionless typing feel, a polished finish, and a creamy sensation. While the sound profile of the New North Pole V2 switch is unknown, it retains the smoothness and glide that Gateron switches are known for. Overall, both switches offer desirable qualities and a smooth typing experience, although the specific sound profile of the New North Pole V2 switch remains uncertain. With either switch, users can expect a satisfactory typing experience depending on their preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a balanced yet pronounced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile is an excellent choice. It offers a jelly-like sound signature and a typing feel that is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force but still medium in weight, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is the way to go. It provides a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while retaining the frictionless glide and smoothness that Gateron is known for. The New North Pole V2 is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless in terms of feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize tactility or a smooth linear experience, as well as your preference for specific sound and feel characteristics.
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