Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Oreo. The New North Pole V2 is a linear switch that stands out for its polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer has a rubber dampener, which results in a crisper typing experience while still maintaining the seamless glide and smoothness Gateron is known for. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo is a tactile switch that offers a delightful treat for your fingertips. With a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, typing on the Oreo switches is a truly indulgent experience. These switches strike a balance between satisfying keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience, accompanied by a subtle and mellow sound profile. While these general descriptions provide an overview of what each switch offers, 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Oreo switches both feature polycarbonate housing for both the top and bottom. This means that aesthetically, they will have a similar appearance with their translucent housings, making them suitable for use with RGB lighting. Furthermore, the use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, enhancing the overall auditory experience of typing or gaming on these switches.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the two. When using the Gateron New North Pole V2, for example, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will play a greater role in the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction in sound production is worth considering for users who prioritize the auditory feedback of their typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Oreo share the use of polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar aesthetic qualities and sound profiles. However, the distribution of these qualities may vary based on the switch's design, with the bottom housing having a greater influence on the sound and feel upon pressing a key, and the top housing contributing more significantly to the sound produced upon key release. Understanding these distinctions can help users make informed decisions when selecting a switch that best suits their preferences and typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are a few distinctions to consider. The New North Pole V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Oreo's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the New North Pole V2 is also slightly heavier with a force of 62.5 grams, while the Oreo measures 55 grams. Therefore, while the New North Pole V2 offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Oreo provides a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light force range, ensuring that users will obtain similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and specific usage scenarios. For those desiring a lighter typing experience for prolonged use, the Oreo may be the preferred option, while those seeking a more robust and tactile typing sensation may opt for the New North Pole V2.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. So, pressing down on the keys of either switch would result in a similar feeling and distance traveled. Neither switch has a shorter or longer travel distance than the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron New 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 New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for providing a subtle, mellow sound profile. The absence of a rubber dampener allows for a crisper typing experience, resulting in a quieter overall sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by its design, but is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. Therefore, the specific sound experienced may vary depending on these additional factors.
On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as having a unique acoustic signature, being a bit chirpy in nature. This distinct sound adds a touch of character to the typing experience. It's worth mentioning that the auditory experience of a switch can be influenced by the keyboard and keycap setup as well.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless properties. The absence of a rubber dampener allows for smoother key travel, reduced friction, and an effortless typing experience. The typing sensation is akin to gliding your fingers across the keys, resulting in a sleek and refined feel.
On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch provides an accented and stepped feel. These switches offer a medium level of tactility, striking a balance between a prominent tactile bump and a more subtle sensation. The typing experience is cushioned, providing a comfortable feel when bottoming out the keys.
In conclusion, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The New North Pole V2 provides a mellow sound profile and a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The Everglide Oreo, on the other hand, brings a chirpy sound characteristic and an accented, stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing experience, either switch can provide satisfying results. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, which may influence the overall subjective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a seamless glide, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would be a great choice. This switch offers a crisper typing experience without the rubber dampener, while still providing a frictionless typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a delectable tactile bump at the top, the Everglide Oreo would be the way to go. These switches strike the perfect balance between satisfying keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Oreo switches offer a subtle, mellow sound profile. In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing smooth and effortless typing. On the other hand, the Oreo switches are accented and stepped, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches and the specific typing experience you desire.
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