Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Ocean offer distinct typing experiences. The New North Pole V2 is a linear switch that is praised for its polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. Unlike its predecessor, this switch no longer has a rubber dampener, providing a crisper typing experience while maintaining the seamless glide and smoothness that users love. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch which does not have a standout feature but offers a different typing sensation. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing, the Ocean may be the better choice 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
N/A
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
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 Ocean both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Although both switches share this housing material for the top, the overall sound profile and aesthetics may vary based on other factors such as the stem design or internal components.
While the New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Outemu Ocean utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing material, whether it is polycarbonate or nylon, will have a more significant impact on the typing experience when bottoming out keys. Conversely, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Ocean offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, the New North Pole V2 has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Ocean's 55 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier force of 62.5 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. The New North Pole V2 offers a medium resistance level overall, whereas the Ocean's resistance level is uncertain. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the New North Pole V2 would be the better option, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Ocean if its resistance level aligns with their preference. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users depending on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is clear that they have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches provide a consistent tactile feedback and require the same amount of force to actuate. This means that whether you choose the New North Pole V2 or the Ocean, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and satisfying keystroke, making them suitable options for any typing or gaming preference.
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 Ocean 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 softer and more subdued sound compared to other linear switches, providing a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch offers a more pronounced and crisp sound with a tactile bump, giving a satisfying click sound when pressed. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the New North Pole V2 being more subtle and the Ocean being more audible. Remember, the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is well-known for its polished and creamy typing experience. These switches offer a refined and smooth feel, thanks to the lack of a rubber dampener and possible factory lubrication. Users can expect reduced friction and a seamless key travel, resulting in a luxurious typing sensation. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is unknown, so it's advisable to try them out firsthand to determine their tactile feedback and typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch stands out for its quieter sound profile, polished and creamy typing feel, and frictionless key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch offers a more audible and tactile typing experience, but specific details about its sound and feel are unclear. For those looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience, the New North Pole V2 would be a solid choice, while individuals seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback may prefer the Outemu Ocean. Ultimately, personal preference and experimentation will dictate which switch suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a crisper typing feel with a medium bottom out force and a frictionless glide, then the New North Pole V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique tactile feedback and a smooth key travel, the Ocean switch could be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Remember to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style.
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