Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gateron North Pole V2 both offer unique qualities worth considering. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that maintains the familiar heftier feel of the MX Red but stands out for its silent operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is also a linear switch known for its gummy and creamy typing experience, along with a deep and muted sound profile. While each switch offers distinct characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, it is important to dive deeper beyond these generalities to determine which switch best suits your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gateron North Pole V2, one can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of its stiffer plastic composition. This difference in sound characteristics is important to consider for users who have specific preferences for the typing experience they desire.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the two switches also play a significant role in the overall sound profile they produce. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Silent Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a cohesive typing experience with the nylon top housing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 generates a sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing. This balance between top and bottom housing materials is crucial in determining the overall feel and sound of the switch during use.
While the MX Silent Red and the Gateron North Pole V2 have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the overall typing experience may not vary significantly for users seeking similar results. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on the properties of their housing materials, creating a distinct tactile feedback for users to enjoy. Whether one prefers the softer, duller sound of the nylon housing or the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch reveals some differences between the two. The MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50-gram actuation force. This means that the MX Silent Red may feel more responsive and easier to press down. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the North Pole V2 is heavier at 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. This suggests that the North Pole V2 may provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, both switches offer advantages depending on user preferences. Lighter switches like the MX Silent Red are ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches like the North Pole V2 are preferred by those who enjoy a more solid and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The MX Silent Red offers a slightly quicker and more responsive typing experience due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a bit more depth and a more gradual key press feeling with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Cherry MX Silent Red offering a quicker typing experience and the Gateron North Pole V2 providing a more deliberate key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted and thocky typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter mechanical keyboard option. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a subdued sound that is dampened and more subtle compared to traditional mechanical switches. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience, with the MX Silent Red focusing on a deeper and richer sound while the North Pole V2 provides a more muted and dampened tone. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference and the sound profile you find most comfortable for your typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured typing experience, offering a slight friction when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a gummy and creamy typing feel, akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or feeling like gliding your fingers across smooth keys with ease. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch offers a bouncy and polished sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the MX Silent Red focusing on a textured feel while the North Pole V2 provides a gummy and creamy typing sensation. Choosing between the two will depend on the type of tactile feedback you prefer in your mechanical keyboard switches.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red and Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities for users to consider. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience, both switches provide options for reduced noise levels, with the MX Silent Red emphasizing a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, while the North Pole V2 offers a subdued and dampened tone. When it comes to tactile feedback, the MX Silent Red provides a textured typing feel, whereas the North Pole V2 offers a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, and both options offer satisfying typing experiences for newcomers exploring mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment and prefer a quieter typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its muted sound profile and slightly heftier feel provide a satisfying yet quiet typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gummy, chewy typing feel and don't mind a bit of sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is the way to go. Its deep and muted sound profile offers a unique typing experience that some users find quite delightful. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preference for noise level and typing feel.
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