Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, each offers unique features that cater to different preferences. The New North Pole V2 is renowned for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer includes a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper feel while still maintaining the hallmark smooth glide that users appreciate. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have a standout feature like the New North Pole V2 but is known for providing a silent typing experience. Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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 Yellow switches both feature polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect similar acoustics and aesthetics in terms of sound profile and visual appeal.
However, where the two switches diverge is in their choice of bottom housing material. The New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, enhancing the overall sound profile with its stiffness. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials gives each switch a unique feel and acoustics when typing, providing users with different tactile experiences depending on their preferences.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing in the Outemu Silent Yellow provides a balance of sharpness and depth in sound profile. The New North Pole V2, on the other hand, maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, whether you prioritize a clear and resonant sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Yellow switch is heavier than the New North Pole V2. The actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Silent Yellow is 65 grams, making the Silent Yellow require more force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force of the New North Pole V2 is 62.5 grams, compared to the Silent Yellow's 80 grams, indicating that the Silent Yellow switch also requires more force to completely press the key down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the New North Pole V2, as its forces are lower and may provide a smoother typing experience for longer periods. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Outemu Silent Yellow switch, as its heavier forces can offer a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether typing or gaming, the travel distance of these switches will provide consistent feedback and actuation. Ultimately, both switches offer the same level of keypress travel, ensuring that users can expect reliable and responsive performance regardless of the choice between the two.
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 Yellow 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 known for its quieter operation compared to traditional mechanical switches, thanks to the absence of a rubber dampener. This results in a more crisp and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offers a similarly quiet typing experience with minimal noise generated during keystrokes. Both switches are ideal for those looking for a quieter typing environment, although final sound output can vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is described as offering a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, characterized by smooth and refined key presses with minimal friction. This results in a sleek and effortless typing sensation that users appreciate. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is unknown. Despite this, it can be assumed that the switch may offer a similar level of smoothness and ease of typing as the Gateron New North Pole V2, given its "silent" designation and focus on providing a quieter typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches offer unique benefits in terms of sound and feel. While the Gateron switch is praised for its crisp typing experience and smooth key presses without a rubber dampener, the Outemu switch focuses on providing a quieter typing environment with its silent operation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities that each user prioritizes in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams and enjoy a polished, creamy, or frictionless typing feel with a crisp and smooth key travel, then the New North Pole V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and prioritize a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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