Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Phoenix. The New North Pole V2 is a linear switch, while the Phoenix is a clicky switch, offering different typing experiences. The New North Pole V2 is best known for its frictionless typing feel, providing a smooth and seamless glide that users have come to love. Additionally, the removal of the rubber dampener in this version has enhanced the typing experience, resulting in a crisper feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix is renowned for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, which adds a distinctive clicky sound and feel to each keystroke. Its crystalline and sparkling type feel truly makes it stand out among other clicky switches. These general pointers give you an idea of the qualities each switch brings to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
While both switches share similar housing materials, the New North Pole V2 and the Phoenix may still have some differences. Since the qualities of the housing material are split between the bottom and top housing of a switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the keys. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when you release a key. It is worth noting that these differences might be subtle, but they can contribute to the overall typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Phoenix both utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while also providing the benefits of translucency for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Although the housing materials may be the same, potential variances in the switches' design and construction might still lead to minor differences in the typing experience, particularly in terms of bottom-out and release sounds and sensations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Phoenix is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the New North Pole V2 at 62.5 grams and the Phoenix at 62 grams.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of the New North Pole V2 may be preferred by those who desire a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals using the keyboard for work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Phoenix's actuation force is unknown, so it is difficult to compare it directly with the New North Pole V2 in terms of weight. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, options with heavier forces may be more suitable.
Overall, while the actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is known, the actuation force of the Phoenix remains unavailable. However, both switches possess a medium bottom out force, ensuring a similar result in terms of the total force required to press the keys all the way down. Therefore, if a user desires a medium weight switch with a defined actuation force, the New North Pole V2 can be a suitable choice, while the Phoenix offers a similar bottom out force effect yet without disclosed actuation force information.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that there is a difference between the two. The New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Phoenix has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly deeper keypress experience compared to the Phoenix switch.
Typically, a travel distance of 4 mm is considered more traditional, offering a satisfying depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch's travel distance of 3.3 mm falls on the shallower end of the spectrum. This may appeal to gamers or individuals seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances are preferred in such scenarios to promote quick and nimble keystrokes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Outemu Phoenix will depend on personal preference. If a more responsive and quick keystroke is desired, the Phoenix's slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial and deeper keypress, the New North Pole V2 with its 4 mm travel distance would likely be the preferred choice.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 New North Pole V2 switch is not specifically described in the given information. However, based on its linear nature and the removal of the rubber dampener, it is likely to provide a quieter typing experience compared to clicky switches like the Phoenix. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is described as having a crunchy sound profile, similar to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches share a descriptor of being polished. A polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the New North Pole V2 switch is known for its frictionless typing feel, providing users with a seamless glide and smoothness. The Phoenix switch does not have any other specific feel descriptors mentioned, but with its polished nature, it can be inferred that it also offers a smooth typing experience.
Considering the available information, the New North Pole V2 and the Phoenix switches offer different qualities. The New North Pole V2 excels in providing a frictionless typing experience and a seamless glide, resulting in a crisper typing feel. The sound of the New North Pole V2 is unknown but is likely to be quieter compared to clicky switches. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism, offering a crunchy sound profile reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Both switches share the descriptor of being polished, indicating a smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, depending on the user's preference for linear or clicky switches, both options provide their own distinctive subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would be a great choice. It provides a crisper typing experience without the rubber dampener, while still maintaining the trademark frictionless typing feel that users love. On the other hand, if you prefer clicky switches with a unique under-skirt click mechanism, the Outemu Phoenix would be the way to go. It offers a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of crunchiness in their typing experience. Both switches provide a polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring a sleek and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired sound and feel that you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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