Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent 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 Silent Ocean both offer unique features and advantages. The New North Pole V2 is a linear switch that boasts a crisper typing experience thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener, while still maintaining a frictionless typing feel that Gateron is known for. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean from Outemu is also a linear switch but doesn't have a distinct feature. If you're looking for a switch that is polished, creamy, and frictionless, the 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting effects. However, the Silent Ocean switches differ with a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top housing of the New North Pole V2 and the Silent Ocean switches allows for a similar sound profile that is sharp, higher-pitched, and clear. The aesthetic appeal of clear housing is also highlighted by the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the difference in bottom housing materials affects the overall sound experience. The New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a clear and resonant sound, while the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In conclusion, while both the New North Pole V2 and the Silent Ocean switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, their bottom housing materials provide distinct sound experiences. The New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a resonant sound, whereas the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper and clearer sound or a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both fall within the medium range, however, the New North Pole V2 is slightly heavier. The New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Ocean, as it requires less force to actuate the keys. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the tactile experience of using these switches will be very similar, providing consistent feedback and keypress feel. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two, making them equally suitable for those looking for a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Silent 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 New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its quiet operation compared to many other mechanical switches, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch offers a similar level of quietness, allowing for a noise-free typing environment. Both switches are recommended for those who work in shared spaces or prefer a quieter keyboard. When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 switch is praised for its polished and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and refined keypress without any resistance. The Outemu Silent Ocean switch, while lacking specific descriptions, can be assumed to offer a similar level of smoothness and ease of typing based on its silent operation.
In conclusion, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch offer quiet operation, making them suitable for environments where noise may be a concern. The New North Pole V2 is known for its polished and frictionless feel, providing a smooth typing experience without any resistance. While specific details about the feel of the Silent Ocean switch are unknown, its silent operation suggests a comparable smoothness in typing. Ultimately, both switches are solid choices for those seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 is the way to go. The lack of a rubber dampener enhances the smoothness and glide of this switch, providing a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing sensation. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom out force switch and prioritize silence over tactile feedback, the Silent Ocean may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound level, and bottom out force. Consider these factors to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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