Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2, a linear switch, to the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, it becomes clear that they offer unique typing experiences. The New North Pole V2 is revered for its smooth and frictionless typing feel, enhanced by the removal of a rubber dampener, providing a crisper keystroke. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf does not have any standout features mentioned. If you're looking for a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, the New North Pole V2 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Maple Leaf both offer unique qualities when it comes to housing materials. The New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of bottom housings, the New North Pole V2 continues to utilize polycarbonate, providing the same advantages of a sharp and clear sound profile as mentioned before. The nylon bottom housing of the Maple Leaf offers a similar deep and full sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch means that each housing material contributes different qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
While the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles and characteristics. The polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 provides a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for users looking for a more precise typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Maple Leaf offers a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a softer and more muted typing sound. Regardless of the differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall auditory experience of typing.
Weight
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch both fall within the medium range when it comes to actuation force, with the New North Pole V2 requiring 50 grams and the Maple Leaf requiring 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 is on the lighter side at 62.5 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's heavier 65 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the New North Pole V2, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Maple Leaf for its heavier bottom out force. In either case, users can expect a similar typing experience due to the comparable actuation forces of the two switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the New North Pole V2 being on the longer side and the Maple Leaf being slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize speed may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf for quick response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired travel distance and 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 Maple Leaf 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 Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is often described as having a quiet and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for producing a more audible sound with a tactile bump feedback. This means that the New North Pole V2 may be preferred by those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Maple Leaf switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more audible feedback when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is often described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. This means that users can expect a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's feel is unknown at this time, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a quiet typing experience and smooth key travel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a more audible sound and tactile bump feedback, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch could be the way to go. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for you, so trying out both switches on a keyboard is recommended to get a better feel for how they perform.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter actuation force, the New North Pole V2 may be the better choice with its 62.5-gram bottom out force. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier actuation force, the Maple Leaf's 65-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a crisper typing experience and a frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 with its polished, creamy, and frictionless attributes may be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and which switch characteristics align best with your typing style.
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