Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Speed Silver is designed for maximum speed and rapid response, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize quick keystrokes and minimal spring resistance. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy and creamy typing feel, along with a subdued sound profile that provides a satisfying typing experience. While the MX Speed Silver is known for its textured and thocky feel, the North Pole V2 offers a bouncy and polished sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and specific needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2, we can see that they both utilize different materials for their housing components. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 employs a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver may be more preferred for those looking for a softer and more muted typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 is ideal for users seeking a clearer and more resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, we can see a similar contrast in materials and resulting sound profiles. The MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. Conversely, the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials further emphasizes the distinct sound characteristics of each switch, with the stiffer polycarbonate of the North Pole V2 offering a more defined and resonant typing experience compared to the softer nylon of the MX Speed Silver.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2 will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials, such as the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the MX Speed Silver and the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the North Pole V2, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of typing feel and sound profile depending on their preferred housing material. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a softer and more muted typing experience with the MX Speed Silver or a clearer and more resonant sound profile with the North Pole V2.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 30 grams, while the North Pole V2 is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but the North Pole V2 is classified as medium-heavy in this aspect. The lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver makes it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the MX Speed Silver. The shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 Speed Silver switch is best described as thocky and low-pitched, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed, perfect for gamers seeking an audible confirmation of their actions. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a more subdued sound profile, ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further enhanced or muted depending on the keyboard and keycap combination.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured action, providing a tactile feedback that some users may find adds to the typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy, offering a softer and more cushioned typing feel reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch is also known for its creamy, bouncy, and polished attributes, delivering a smooth, lively, and refined typing sensation that caters to individuals looking for a premium tactile experience.
In conclusion, while both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron North Pole V2 switches are linear switches that offer rapid response and low spring resistance, they exhibit distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The MX Speed Silver excels in providing a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured feel, ideal for gamers seeking a tactile confirmation of their actions. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a subdued sound profile and a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished typing feel, providing a softer and more cushioned typing experience for those looking for a more refined touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches, consider the specific needs and preferences for your keyboard usage. If you are a gamer looking for maximum speed and responsiveness, the MX Speed Silver with its instant triggering and low spring resistance may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a unique typing experience with a deep, muted sound profile and a satisfyingly gummy feel, the North Pole V2 switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
