Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Cherry Nixie

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Cherry Nixie both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The New North Pole V2, a linear switch, is praised for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer has a rubber dampener, leading to a crisper feel while maintaining the hallmark frictionless glide Gateron is known for. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie, also a linear switch, is renowned for its substantial heft and textured typing feel. With updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, the Nixie combines tradition with modern innovation, offering a low-pitched, thocky typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

Cherry Nixie Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$6.00

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Cherry Nixie, it is clear that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the New North Pole V2 provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, due to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Nixie produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While the New North Pole V2 is more likely to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Nixie's classic nylon housing offers a timeless feel to typing experience.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches maintain their distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 reinforces the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound characteristics, while the nylon bottom housing of the Nixie enhances the deeper and fuller sound attributes. The differences in sound resulting from the use of these materials highlight the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing's impact on the sound when a key is released demonstrates how each material plays a crucial role in defining the overall typing experience.

While the Gateron New North Pole V2 and Cherry Nixie utilize different housing materials, their top and bottom housings each contribute unique qualities to the sound profile of the switch. The contrast between the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate in the New North Pole V2 and the deeper, fuller sound of nylon in the Nixie showcases how material choice can significantly impact the typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer quality sound profiles that cater to different preferences, demonstrating how the choice of housing material can influence the overall feel and sound of mechanical keyboards.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, we can see that the New North Pole V2 has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Nixie's heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. However, when looking at the bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 also has a lighter force of 62.5 grams in comparison to the Nixie's heavier 80 grams. This means that while the New North Pole V2 may require less force to trigger a keystroke, it also requires less force to fully press down, resulting in a medium typing experience. On the other hand, the Nixie offers a heavier typing experience both in actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.

Travel distance

The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of both switches, it is evident that they provide a similar tactile experience for users. With a travel distance of 4mm, both switches offer a consistent level of keypress feedback and actuation depth. Whether using the Gateron New North Pole V2 or the Cherry Nixie, users can expect a smooth and responsive typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long, striking a balance between actuation force and keypress comfort.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for producing a smooth and quiet typing experience, with a lack of tactile feedback contributing to a more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as thocky and low-pitched, providing a deep and rich sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference and the overall build of the keyboard, users may lean towards the subtle sound of the New North Pole V2 or the more pronounced sound of the Nixie.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is recognized for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and frictionless keypress with each stroke. The Cherry Nixie, on the other hand, is noted for its textured feel, which may provide a bit more resistance compared to the sleekness of the New North Pole V2. Depending on whether a user prefers a silky glide or a slightly more tactile sensation, the choice between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference.

Overall, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch excels in providing a seamless glide and smooth typing experience, ideal for those seeking a frictionless feel during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a more substantial and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation through updated materials and springs. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a polished, creamy, or frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Cherry Nixie Linear

$6.00

$4.15 per 10

Learn more