Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron New North Pole V2, a linear switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, a clicky switch. The New North Pole V2 stands out for its removal of a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience while still maintaining a frictionless feel. It is often described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch does not have any standout features but is known for its clicky feedback. If you prefer a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be the way to go. 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
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it especially useful for those who want to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects. With both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics, as the material's properties will have a consistent impact on keypresses.
However, where the two switches differ is in the material used for the bottom housing. The New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile by adding to the clear and resonant tones produced when typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper tones produced by polycarbonate. This contrast in bottom housing materials can make a noticeable difference in the typing experience for users of each switch.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom of a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of each keypress. While both the New North Pole V2 and the Dustproof Purple switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in unique sound profiles. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 enhances the clear and resonant tones, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple creates a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with each offering a distinct typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch differ slightly in weight. The New North Pole V2 has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Purple's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 requires 62.5 grams while the Dustproof Purple needs 65 grams, making the Dustproof Purple slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of force, providing a good balance between lightness for extended typing and heaviness for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches vary slightly, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and response.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Therefore, the travel distance of these switches is equal, providing a consistent typing experience whether using the New North Pole V2 or the Dustproof Purple switch.
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 Purple 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 is known for its quiet and smooth operation, providing a pleasant typing experience without any distracting clacks or clicks. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is designed to provide a satisfying tactile and audible feedback with each keypress, producing a distinct clicking sound that some users find satisfying and engaging.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 is highly praised for its polished and creamy typing experience. The absence of a rubber dampener allows for a smoother key travel, resulting in a refined and effortless typing sensation. In comparison, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch offers a different tactile experience with its unique clicky feedback. While not as smooth as the New North Pole V2, the Dustproof Purple switch provides a distinct and satisfying tactile bump with each keypress, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel.
Considering the available information, it's clear that the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch focuses on providing a quiet and smooth typing experience with its frictionless operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch offers a more tactile and audible typing experience, catering to users who enjoy the satisfying clicky feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preferred typing feel and sound profile, with the New North Pole V2 offering a smoother and quieter typing experience while the Dustproof Purple clicky switch delivering a more tactile and audible feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy the clicky sound of a tactile switch, the Dustproof Purple might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for. Remember to test out different switch types to find the one that best suits your needs.
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