Cherry MX Brown vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Brown and the Gateron New North Pole V2 offer distinct experiences for users. The Cherry MX Brown switches are best known for their subtlety, offering a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 switches from Gateron provide a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still retaining the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup - a frictionless typing feel. If you prefer a textured, bassy, and low-pitched experience, the Cherry MX Brown might be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 should be your go-to switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$4.00 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Brown and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches have different housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The MX Brown switch features a nylon top housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch has a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the MX Brown and the New North Pole V2 switches differ in material. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Brown contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the New North Pole V2 creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it advantageous for switches with RGB lighting.

When considering the impact of the different housing materials on the overall switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing primarily influences the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the overall typing experience and sound profile of the MX Brown and the New North Pole V2 switches are affected by the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. However, it can be expected that both switches will deliver satisfying results in terms of sound and feel, albeit with different nuances.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The MX Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 50 grams. This means that the MX Brown requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, in terms of bottom out force, the MX Brown is also lighter at 55 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 62.5 grams. This means that the MX Brown provides a lighter and less forceful typing experience overall.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, either for longer periods of use or for gaming sessions, the MX Brown would be a suitable choice. The actuation force and bottom out force being on the lighter side allow for ease of typing without exerting too much pressure on the keys. On the other hand, if someone prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, then the New North Pole V2 would be a better option. Its slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force provide a slightly heavier typing experience and may be more suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance.

Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Brown and the Gateron New North Pole V2 differ slightly, both switches fall within the medium range. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of general typing experience, with the MX Brown being slightly lighter and the New North Pole V2 being slightly heavier in terms of force required.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have identical travel distances of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide the same distance of travel when pressed down, allowing users to have a consistent tactile experience. Whether typing or gaming, the user will feel the same 4 mm distance from the top to the bottom of the switch, ensuring a familiar feel and response. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their subtle audio feedback. They offer a relatively light typing experience with a gentle tactility, resulting in a sound that can be described as bassy and low-pitched. This means that the sound profile during key presses has a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are unknown. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches have a textured sensation. This means that they have noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users for a subtle texture feedback. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches offer a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The polished finish of these switches results in a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the creamy sensation of these switches, either from factory lubrication or specific materials, creates a silky feeling when typing. The switch effortlessly glides under your fingers, providing a frictionless typing experience.

Based on the available information, it is clear that the Cherry MX Brown and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches differ in terms of sound and feel. The MX Brown switches provide a more subtle and gentle typing experience, with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches offer a crisper typing experience, with a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when selecting between the two. However, if you are looking for a similar typing experience, both switches offer smooth travel and tactile feedback, although the specifics may vary.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you value subtlety, a light typing experience, and gentle tactility, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is a great choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams provides a comfortable typing experience, and its subdued audio feedback ensures a quieter environment. In terms of sound, the MX Brown is characterized as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses.

On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing experience and a frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is an excellent option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams, these switches provide a medium typing experience. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener, Gateron has maintained the seamless glide and smoothness that users love about the North Pole lineup. The New North Pole V2 is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between Cherry MX Brown and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize gentle tactility, a light typing experience, and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown is the way to go. However, if you prefer a crisper typing experience and a frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is the better option. Consider your desired typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more