Gateron Mountain Top vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the specific characteristics and qualities of each switch. The Mountain Top switch is designed with office environments in mind, providing a quiet and discreet typing experience with a light actuation. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch offers a unique gummy feel and a deep, muted sound profile, making typing on it a satisfying experience. While the Mountain Top switch is ideal for professional settings that require subtle typing, the North Pole V2 switch is perfect for those who enjoy a chewy and creamy typing feel. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron North Pole V2, we can see that the Mountain Top utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the North Pole V2 uses polycarbonate for both. The nylon housing of the Mountain Top creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the North Pole V2 produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the North Pole V2's clear polycarbonate housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while the Mountain Top's nylon housing offers a classic and understated look.
While the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron North Pole V2 differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The nylon housing of the Mountain Top provides a duller and rounder sound, creating a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the North Pole V2 delivers a clear and resonant sound, resulting in a more lively and crisp typing experience. Both switches have their own merits, with the Mountain Top offering a classic sound and the North Pole V2 providing a modern and vibrant sound that complements RGB lighting setups.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron North Pole V2 ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. While the nylon housing of the Mountain Top may appeal to those seeking a softer and deeper typing experience, the polycarbonate housing of the North Pole V2 caters to individuals looking for a sharper and crisper typing sound. Whether you prefer a classic look or a more modern design with RGB lighting, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience in their own distinct ways.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mountain Top switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the North Pole V2 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Mountain Top switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the North Pole V2 may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch. The Mountain Top switch would provide a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch would offer a slightly deeper and more traditional key press experience, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and typing preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a subdued sound, offering a quieter typing experience compared to many other switches. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant sound signature while typing, allowing for a comfortable and non-disruptive user experience. When considering the sound produced by these switches, it is important to remember that the overall typing experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle. This indicates that users can expect a responsive typing experience with a gentle resistance, suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is known for providing a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished feel. This suggests that typing on these switches will offer a smooth and springy sensation, enhancing the overall typing feel. The unique characteristics of each switch contribute to a distinct typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mountain Top and North Pole V2 linear switches offer unique sound profiles and typing feels to cater to a variety of preferences and environments. While the Mountain Top switch provides a neutral sound with a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the North Pole V2 switch offers a subdued sound with a gummy and creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It is important to consider how these factors align with your personal preferences and typing habits to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard and your preference for typing feel and sound. If you value a quiet typing experience for professional settings with a light actuation force, opt for the Mountain Top switch. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gummy, smooth typing feel with a deep and satisfying sound profile, the North Pole V2 switch might be more suitable for you. Evaluate your priorities and preferences to make an informed decision on which switch to go for based on your individual needs.
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