Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron New North Pole V2, a linear switch, and the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch. The New North Pole V2 sets itself apart from its predecessor by eliminating the rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience while still maintaining a frictionless typing feel that users appreciate. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom doesn't have a standout feature but falls into the tactile switch category. If you prefer a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, 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
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
3.30 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 Tom are similar in that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. However, the Outemu Tom stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of performance and sound output, the difference in bottom housing material between the New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Tom plays a significant role. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches contributes to their sharp, crisp sound profiles, but when it comes to the bottom housing, the nylon material in the Tom provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing can create a more satisfying typing sensation, as the softer material absorbs more sound, resulting in a smoother bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 may offer a firmer press with a clearer resonant sound upon key press.
Overall, while both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Tom share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The New North Pole V2 focuses on creating a clear and resonant sound profile throughout the switch, while the Outemu Tom prioritizes a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to various user preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we can see that the actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is lighter at 50 grams compared to the Tom's 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the New North Pole V2 is heavier at 62.5 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the New North Pole V2 will require less force to trigger a keystroke but will provide a heavier typing experience when fully pressed compared to the Tom switch. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the New North Pole V2 for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Tom for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's typing style and preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. This means that the New North Pole V2 requires a little bit more distance to actuate compared to the Tom switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom switch, while those who enjoy a more robust feel when typing may lean towards the New North Pole V2. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distance, with the Tom switch providing a quicker keypress and the New North Pole V2 offering a slightly more deliberate keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Tom 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 often described as relatively quiet and smooth, with a satisfying "thock" sound upon keypress. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for its slightly louder and crisper "click" sound, providing more audible feedback with each keystroke. Keep in mind that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the New North Pole V2 linear switch is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience. The switch's smooth and refined finish, along with the frictionless key travel, creates a sleek and effortless typing sensation. In comparison, the Outemu Tom tactile switch's feel is not specified in the provided information, so it may not offer the same level of smoothness and slickness as the Gateron switch.
In conclusion, while both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch stands out for its quieter operation, smooth typing experience, and frictionless key travel. However, if the tactile feedback is a priority for you, the Outemu Tom tactile switch may be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, typing experience, sound, and feel. You may want to choose the New North Pole V2 if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, and a frictionless typing feel. On the other hand, if bottom out force is not a concern for you, and you are looking for a switch with a different tactile experience, the Tom may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most.
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