Cherry MX Orange vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Orange and Gateron New North Pole V2 stand out as two appealing linear options, each offering unique qualities for varying typing preferences. The Cherry MX Orange is revered for its revival of the original MX Orange design—now equipped with enhancements that cater to high demand, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a reliable and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 takes a different approach by eliminating the rubber dampener found in its predecessor, resulting in a crisper typing feel that emphasizes a smooth, frictionless glide across the keys. While the Cherry MX Orange might attract those who appreciate a classic feel and dependable performance, the New North Pole V2 is perfect for enthusiasts who prefer a more modern, polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches, one of the key differences lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Cherry MX Orange features a nylon top housing, which is noted for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This softness allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Consequently, while the MX Orange offers a rounder acoustic experience, the New North Pole V2 provides a more resonant and clear sound when keys are released.

Turning to their bottom housings, both switches again demonstrate contrasting characteristics reflective of their materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Cherry MX Orange continues the trend of delivering a deeper sound profile, enhancing the overall acoustic signature of the switch. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Gateron New North Pole V2 imparts a crisper and more pronounced sound. The differences in sound profiles are particularly emphasized when typing, as the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel—an area where the MX Orange's softer nylon offers a fuller impact versus the more agile and bright response from the polycarbonate in the New North Pole V2.

Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in both switches influences the overall typing experience. While the Cherry MX Orange leans towards a muted, bass-heavy sound characteristic, the Gateron New North Pole V2 excels in delivering a bright and crisp auditory feedback. If one were to choose switches with similar sound profiles achieved through housing combinations of nylon and polycarbonate, finer distinctions might still arise in terms of tactile feel and auditory response based on press dynamics. Thus, despite the inherent material differences leading to varied auditory experiences, the overall sensation of key presses can still echo similar themes of stability and responsiveness, albeit through contrasting acoustic signatures.

Weight

The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch present interesting differences in their actuation forces, with the MX Orange requiring 55 grams to actuate compared to the lighter 50 grams needed for the New North Pole V2. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Gateron switch more comfortable. Additionally, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unknown, whereas the New North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating that it provides a more substantial feel when pressed down fully. Consequently, those who favor a firmer typing experience might lean towards the Gateron switch due to its clearly defined bottom out force, while users seeking a lighter actuation might appreciate the MX Orange. Overall, with the MX Orange's unknown bottom out force, it is difficult to directly compare that aspect, but for actuation forces, the New North Pole V2 is the lighter option.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch share an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they provide the same feel when pressing down on a key. As such, users can expect a similar tactile experience from both switches, as the travel distance affects how long it takes for the key to reach its actuation point and return to its original position. Therefore, if you're considering either switch for your mechanical keyboard, you can anticipate an equivalent performance regarding travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch is typically characterized as relatively quiet, producing a muted thock when pressed. This sound profile can make it suitable for quieter environments, appealing to individuals who prefer a less intrusive typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch has a sharper and crisper sound due to the absence of a rubber dampener. This results in a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke, which can be satisfying to some users but potentially more pronounced than what the MX Orange offers. It’s important to consider that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard’s construction and the keycaps used, making the exact experience somewhat subjective.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange has long been celebrated for its balanced typing experience, offering a sense of solidity without feeling overly heavy or restrictive. It provides a smooth, linear action that allows for easy key presses, making it a reliable choice for prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron New North Pole V2 stands out with its polished and creamy characteristics. These features contribute to a refined and buttery typing experience, enhancing the sensation of fluidity with its frictionless action. Users can expect minimal resistance during keystrokes, which translates to a smooth and effortless typing experience, ideal for both casual and intensive typists.

Overall, both the Cherry MX Orange and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The MX Orange emphasizes a quiet sound profile and solid linear feel, making it a great option for those who prioritize a more subdued typing environment. Meanwhile, the New North Pole V2 excels in delivering a crisp auditory feedback and an ultra-smooth typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate a more dynamic and responsive feel. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch could meet your needs, but the decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize sound, tactile feedback, or the overall typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches, your personal preferences and typing style will play a crucial role. If you appreciate a versatile switch with a legacy behind it, the Cherry MX Orange may be ideal for you, especially if you value the historical significance and reliability associated with Cherry switches. Although the specific bottom-out force is unknown, the MX Orange switch is designed to provide a balanced typing experience that appeals to many users. On the other hand, if you're someone who prioritizes a crisp and frictionless feel combined with a polished and creamy typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be the better option. With its medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams and the absence of a rubber dampener, it delivers smooth and effortless key presses that can be highly satisfying for long typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean towards the historical appeal of the MX Orange or the modern refinement found in the New North Pole V2.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more