Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinct typing experiences. The New North Pole V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. With the absence of a rubber dampener, users can enjoy a crisper typing experience while still benefiting from the smooth glide characteristic of Gateron switches. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch, lacks any standout features in terms of marketing. However, it is important to note that clicky switches like the Dustproof Blue are known for their tactile feedback and audible click sound. If you enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Blue may be the switch for you. 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates sound effectively. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Dustproof Blue has a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material in the Dustproof Blue results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than polycarbonate.
In terms of sound and feel, the differences between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue lie mainly in their bottom housings. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that create a similar sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Blue elicits a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2. This difference is most notable when bottoming out keys, where the impact of the bottom housing is felt and heard. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound when keys are released.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue may come down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 may be more appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, the nylon housing of the Dustproof Blue may be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, whether it's through the clarity of the polycarbonate or the depth of sound provided by the nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are some notable differences. The New North Pole V2 has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Dustproof Blue also has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the New North Pole V2 is 62.5 grams, making it lighter than the Dustproof Blue with a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Dustproof Blue, which offers a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, both switches offer a medium actuation force, but the Dustproof Blue has a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more robust typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer consistent and precise feedback in terms of travel distance, allowing for a satisfying typing experience. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and feedback.
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 Dustproof 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 often praised for its quiet and smooth operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is known for its crisp and satisfying click sound with each key press, providing auditory feedback that some users find satisfying. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 switch is often described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. The switch's frictionless design creates a fluid and effortless keystroke, which can enhance typing accuracy and comfort. In comparison, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is unknown, but it may offer a tactile and pronounced bump with each press, providing a satisfying tactile sensation for typists who enjoy clicky switches.
Overall, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The New North Pole V2 excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience with a frictionless feel, while the Dustproof Blue clicky switch stands out for its crisp click sound and potential tactile feedback. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is important to take into account the activation force and typing experience each switch offers. If you prefer a medium activation force and a frictionless typing feel, the New North Pole V2 would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier activation force and a clicky typing experience, the Dustproof Blue might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and activation force.
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