Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Kailh Plum. The New North Pole V2 is a linear switch that is best known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer has a rubber dampener, providing a crisper feel. However, it still retains the seamless glide and smoothness that users have come to love. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch known for its unique characteristics. While it feels quite hefty, it doesn't feature a huge tactile bump like many other tactile switches. This makes it stand out, offering a different typing experience. The Plum also has a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. Although these general pointers can help you make an initial decision, it's important to dive deeper beyond generalities to choose the best switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Kailh Plum both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, the sound and aesthetic qualities of the top housing will be similar between the New North Pole V2 and the Kailh Plum switches.
However, the bottom housings of these two switches differ. The New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. This material choice ensures a sharper and more resonant bottom-out sound when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Kailh Plum creates a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2.
In terms of usage, the noticeable differences between these switches will be felt when pressing down and releasing a key. The bottom housing of the switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the nylon bottom housing of the Kailh Plum will deliver a deeper sound and slightly softer feel when compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2. Conversely, the top housing of the switch will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Since both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the sound profile upon key release will be similar, producing a sharp and crisp sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is 50 grams, while the Plum's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the New North Pole V2 at 62.5 grams and the Plum at 70 grams, making the Plum slightly heavier in this aspect.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer typing periods and is suitable for keyboards used for work or extensive gaming sessions. In this case, the New North Pole V2 would be a suitable choice due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel, seeking a more substantial typing experience. For such individuals, options with heavier forces are preferable. In this scenario, the Plum's slightly heavier bottom out force would provide a more satisfying typing sensation.
While the actuation force of the Plum is unknown, we can assume that it falls within a similar range as the New North Pole V2, given that both switches have medium bottom out forces. Therefore, if a similar actuation force is desired, both switches are likely to yield comparable results.
Overall, the Gateron New North Pole V2 boasts a lighter actuation force compared to the Kailh Plum, but the Plum offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have different travel distances. The New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the New North Pole V2 falls on the longer side, while the Plum is slightly shorter. This means that if you prefer a more responsive typing experience and faster response times, you may lean towards the Plum switch with its shorter travel distance. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more satisfying key press, the New North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance may be a better fit for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference and how you prioritize the travel distance in your typing experience.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 is known for providing a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. The absence of the rubber dampener allows for a crisper typing experience, but the switch still maintains a frictionless typing feel that Gateron is known for. However, it is important to note that the sound profile of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
On the other hand, the Plum tactile switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile. It doesn't feature a significant tactile bump like many other tactile switches, but it still offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience. The Plum switches have a slightly weighty feel, adding to the overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 is described as providing a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The smooth and refined finish of the switch, either due to materials used or factory lubing, results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
In contrast, the Plum tactile switches offer a more mild and stepped typing experience. They provide a gentle typing sensation, making them approachable for most users. While not providing a pronounced tactile feedback like some switches, they still offer a unique feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations.
In conclusion, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct and enjoyable typing experiences. The New North Pole V2 provides a frictionless and smooth typing feel, combined with a neutral sound profile. Meanwhile, Plum switches offer a slightly weighty feel with a more mild tactile feedback and a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a crisper typing experience and a frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it offers a medium actuation force that many users find comfortable. The New North Pole V2s have removed the rubber dampener but still maintain the seamless glide and smoothness that users love. In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2 is not specifically described in the provided information. However, based on its linear nature, you can expect a relatively neutral sound profile.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique weightiness and a mild tactile bump, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a good option. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it falls into the medium-heavy category. The Plum switches feel hefty but without a pronounced tactile bump, making them stand out from other tactile switches. The sound profile is described as neutral and enjoyable, suitable for various purposes.
In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. This means that you can expect smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Plum switch provides a mild and stepped typing experience, which offers a more gentle and approachable sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as typing experience, weightiness, tactile feedback, sound profile, and any other specific requirements you may have.
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