Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it's essential to consider their unique features and characteristics. The New North Pole V2 is renowned for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener, providing a crisper feel while maintaining the signature smooth glide Gateron is known for. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks any standout features but offers a reliable tactile feedback. If you prefer a linear switch with a seamless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be the better choice. In contrast, if you prioritize a tactile feedback with no added features, the Outemu Dustproof Brown might be the right 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 is also made of polycarbonate, while the Dustproof Brown features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a sharp, crisp sound profile ideal for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Brown offers a unique sound profile with a deeper and fuller tone, making it suitable for those who enjoy a softer typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and typing experience.
When it comes to the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Gateron New North Pole V2 and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches respectively offers users a well-rounded typing experience with a balance of sharp, crisp sounds from the top housing and deep, full sounds from the bottom housing.
Weight
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown tactile switch requires more force at 65 grams compared to the New North Pole V2 switch which bottoms out at 62.5 grams. Both switches fall under the medium to medium-heavy category in terms of overall force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the New North Pole V2, while those who enjoy a heavier typing experience may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar tactile feedback and overall typing experience from both switches. However, despite their equal travel distance, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch may feel slightly smoother due to its linear design, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch offers a more pronounced tactile bump. Overall, choosing between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of typing 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 Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is often praised for its smooth and quiet operation. Users appreciate the minimal noise produced during typing, making it suitable for quiet work environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch offers a subtle tactile bump without much audible feedback. The sound of these switches can also vary depending on the keyboard setup and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The smooth finish and factory lubrication contribute to a sleek and effortless key travel, allowing users to glide through each keystroke with ease. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown. Without detailed information on its specific characteristics, it is difficult to directly compare it to the refined feel of the New North Pole V2.
In conclusion, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch stands out for its quiet operation, smooth key travel, and seamless typing experience. The absence of a rubber dampener in the V2 version enhances the crispness of keystrokes while maintaining the signature frictionless feel of the North Pole lineup. On the other hand, details about the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch are lacking, making it challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. For those seeking a refined and quiet typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be a reliable choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the New North Pole V2 with a bottom out force of 62.5 grams may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prioritize a crisper typing experience and a frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and value a tactile typing experience without any specific standout features, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch might be a better fit for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and bottom out force.
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