Cherry MX Black vs. Gateron North Pole V2

Overview

Introduction:

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that is best known for its iconic smoothness and deep sound profile. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches provide a satisfying textured feel when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is also a linear switch, but it offers a unique typing experience described as "gummy". This switch has a deep and muted sound profile, along with a chewy typing feel. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, it's important to delve deeper to determine which one is the best fit for your individual preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$4.00 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Black and the Gateron North Pole V2 have contrasting housing materials. The MX Black features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the North Pole V2 has a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, polycarbonate is relatively stiffer, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their advantages, the MX Black's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound, making it suitable for users who desire a crisper and more distinctive typing sound.

In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the Gateron North Pole V2 has an advantage when it comes to utilizing RGB lighting. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the passage of light, creating vibrant and visually appealing lighting effects. This makes the North Pole V2 a great choice for users who prioritize RGB customization and want their keyboard to shine in various colors. In contrast, the MX Black's nylon housing does not possess this light-transmitting capability, making it less suitable for those who wish to enhance their typing experience with colorful lighting effects.

While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the MX Black and the North Pole V2, the overall impact on the switch's sound and feel is split between the two. When pressing down a key, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and the tactile feedback felt by the user. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role in producing the resulting sound. Therefore, despite the different housing materials, users can expect some similar results in terms of the overall sound and feel of the switch, with variations depending on whether they are pressing down or releasing a key.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the North Pole V2's lighter 50 grams. Similarly, the MX Black requires a higher bottom out force of 80 grams, while the North Pole V2 has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams. Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter touch and a more effortless typing experience, the Gateron North Pole V2 would be a better choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial and firm push feel, the Cherry MX Black with its heavier forces would provide the desired typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is worth considering based on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming session length.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it has a travel distance of 4 mm. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches offer the same travel distance, providing a consistent tactile experience. Whether you opt for the Cherry MX Black or the Gateron North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels when pressed.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Cherry MX Black and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches, the MX Black is known for its low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is described as producing a subdued sound when pressed. It offers a dampened sound that is not completely silent, but more subtle compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the MX Black is known for its textured and stiff characteristics. Textured switches have noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users who enjoy a tactile typing experience. Additionally, MX Black switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, resulting in a firmer typing feel. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a unique typing experience described as gummy and creamy. When bottoming out on these switches, it feels like bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The creamy feeling can be attributed to the smooth and buttery typing experience offered by the switch, which is achieved through lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Furthermore, the North Pole V2 is also described as bouncy and polished, offering a spring-like feedback sensation and a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In summary, the Cherry MX Black and Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black provides a low-pitched sound profile and a textured, stiff typing feel. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 produces a subdued sound with a gummy, creamy, and polished typing feel. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose a switch that aligns with their desired sound and feel experience. It's worth noting that while these switches have distinct characteristics, individual results may vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps.

Conclusion

In summary, if you're looking for a heavier switch with a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. The MX Black offers a low-pitched sound and a textured and stiff feel, which some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a gummy and creamy typing feel, along with a subdued sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be a better fit. The North Pole V2 provides a unique typing experience with its gummy and creamy sensation, as well as a more subtle sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preference for weight, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more