Haimu Neo White vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and Gateron North Pole V2 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Neo White switch provides a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, resulting in a distinctive typing feel that is smooth and satisfying due to the rare use of a Ly stem. Categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', this switch may appeal to those looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is described as 'Gummy', offering a deep and muted sound profile along with a chewy typing feel that some may find enjoyable. Categorized as 'Gummy', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished', this switch is ideal for those seeking a unique and pleasant typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron North Pole V2, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Neo White stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the use of different bottom housing materials results in varying sound profiles and typing experiences. The Neo White's nylon bottom housing provides a softer, more absorptive quality to the typing sound, while the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials also affects the overall feel of each switch. When pressing down on the Neo White, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced, whereas the North Pole V2's top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron North Pole V2 utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the Neo White's inclusion of nylon for the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the North Pole V2's crisper sound. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch will impact the overall feel and sound quality, making each switch unique in its own right.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, a clear difference can be seen. The Neo White has an actuation force of None grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the North Pole V2 requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, providing a slightly heavier feel compared to the Neo White. Additionally, the Neo White has a bottom-out force of 58 grams, while the North Pole V2 has a bottom-out force of 65 grams, making the North Pole V2 the heavier option in terms of overall force required for typing. Both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy feel, catering to different preferences for typing experiences. Ultimately, those who prioritize a lighter actuation force may prefer the Neo White, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the North Pole V2.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Neo White has a shorter travel distance compared to the North Pole V2. The difference may seem minor, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers might appreciate the quicker response time of the Neo White due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more deliberate keystroke may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 per 10 switches.
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 Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of settings and users. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a subdued sound when pressed, creating a more muted typing experience. Both switches may offer different sound profiles depending on the keyboard and keycap setup used.
When it comes to feel, the Neo White switch provides a mild typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users with its gentle characteristics. In contrast, the North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy typing feel, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch may also offer a creamy, bouncy, or polished sensation depending on the specific build and materials used.
Overall, the Haimu Neo White linear switch distinguishes itself with a medium weight and smooth actuation, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch stands out with its gummy typing feel and deep sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users. Depending on whether you prefer a more neutral sound and mild feel or a subdued sound and gummy, bouncy feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch by selecting the appropriate keyboard and keycap configurations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Haimu Neo White linear switch or the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, your decision may come down to your preference for bottom out force, typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and smooth actuation for a satisfying typing experience, the Neo White may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a gummy, creamy, bouncy, or polished typing feel with a subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your own typing style and preferences when making your decision.
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