Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Gateron New North Pole V2, a linear switch, and the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch. The New North Pole V2 is known for its removal of the rubber dampener, providing a crisper typing experience while still retaining the smooth and frictionless feel that users love. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch from Outemu doesn't have any specific standout features but is known for its satisfying clicky sound. If you're looking for a polished and creamy typing experience with minimal friction, the New North Pole V2 may be the way to go. Alternatively, if you prefer the auditory feedback of a clicky switch, the Cream Blue could be the better choice. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cream Blue uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both switches provide distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the Cream Blue's nylon housing offers a more classic typing experience.
The differences between the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue extend to their bottom housings as well. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to its sharp, high-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing enhances its sound profile with a deeper and fuller tone. While both switches offer unique qualities in their bottom housing, they maintain a consistent sound experience across the entire switch due to the split between top and bottom housing materials.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue switches play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the New North Pole V2 create a sharp, high-pitched sound, while the nylon housings of the Cream Blue deliver a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, with the New North Pole V2 catering to those who prefer a crisper sound profile and RGB lighting compatibility, while the Cream Blue appeals to those seeking a classic typing feel with a rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we find that both switches have an identical actuation force of 50 grams. However, the New North Pole V2 has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62.5 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 65 grams. This makes the New North Pole V2 a slightly lighter option overall. The New North Pole V2 provides a medium actuation force and a medium bottom out force, while the Cream Blue offers a medium actuation force but a medium-heavy bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the New North Pole V2, while those who prefer a bit more feedback and resistance may prefer the Cream Blue for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience a consistent key press feeling regardless of which switch they choose. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a satisfying keystroke that is neither too shallow nor too deep, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, providing users with a familiar and reliable typing experience.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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 New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its quiet and smooth typing experience, with a subtle yet satisfying sound profile that is not overly pronounced. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is famous for its distinct and satisfying click sound, providing a tactile and auditory feedback that is both satisfying and engaging. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is often described as polished and frictionless, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is known for its creamy feel, providing a buttery and silky typing sensation that is smooth and satisfying. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, with the New North Pole V2 focusing on a polished and frictionless feel, while the Cream Blue emphasizes a creamy and smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the New North Pole V2 provides a quiet and smooth typing experience with a polished and frictionless feel, the Cream Blue switch offers a satisfying click sound and creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options delivering high-quality performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you are looking for a medium bottom out force with a crisper typing experience and a frictionless typing feel, then the New North Pole V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a clicky typing experience, the Cream Blue switch could be the better option. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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