Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing preferences, two switches that stand out are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the SP-Star RedBlue. The New North Pole V2 is renowned for its crisp typing experience, as Gateron has removed the rubber dampener found in its predecessor. However, the frictionless typing feel that users have come to love remains intact, ensuring a smooth and seamless glide. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches offer a unique medium-light typing experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Additionally, these switches produce a higher-pitched sound profile. While these general pointers can help steer your decision, let's delve deeper into the characteristics of each switch, so you can make an informed choice based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and SP-Star RedBlue both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the use of polycarbonate, which is a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, when it comes to the housing material, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting.
However, it's worth noting that if the top and bottom housings were different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material would be split between the bottom and top of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a stronger influence on the sound when releasing a key. This means that switches with different top and bottom housing materials may have a more nuanced sound profile depending on the specific characteristics of each material.
In conclusion, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and SP-Star RedBlue switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. As a result, they both offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhanced clarity and resonance, and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, the impact of the housing material may differ if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is 50 grams, while the RedBlue's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 requires 62.5 grams of force to fully press the key down, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is slightly lighter, offering a medium-light typing experience.
Considering weight, individuals who prefer lighter switches may opt for the RedBlue, as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without developing fatigue. This feature makes it suitable for keyboards used in work settings or during extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, those seeking a stronger push feel may favor the New North Pole V2, as its higher bottom out force provides a more robust typing experience.
In summary, the actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is known (50 grams), while the RedBlue's actuation force remains unknown. Both switches have a medium actuation force range. However, the New North Pole V2 has a heavier bottom out force (62.5 grams) compared to the RedBlue (57 grams), making it the more substantial option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a similar tactile feel as both switches have the same travel distance. Therefore, whether using the Gateron New North Pole V2 or the SP-Star RedBlue switch, users can expect comparable results in terms of 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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have notable differences in sound and feel. In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2s do not have a specific descriptor provided, suggesting that their sound profile is not explicitly defined in the available information. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches are described as having a low-pitched sound, which typically produces a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the New North Pole V2s are praised for providing a frictionless typing experience, maintaining the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup. They are further described as either polished or creamy, indicating a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and offering a sleek typing experience. The RedBlue switches, on the other hand, are described as mild and polished, providing a more gentle typing experience in a safe middle-ground zone. This implies that the RedBlue switches offer a comfortable and smooth typing sensation with reduced friction.
Taking all available information into consideration, it is evident that the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The New North Pole V2s are known for their frictionless typing feel and either polished or creamy feel, providing a seamless glide and smoothness. The RedBlue switches, on the other hand, are known for their low-pitched sound and mild, polished feel, offering a comfortable and approachable typing experience.
If you are seeking a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, the New North Pole V2 switches would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switches would be more fitting. Although their qualities differ, both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and typing comfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a crisper typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its seamless glide and smoothness, even without the rubber dampener, provide a frictionless typing feel that users love. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a lower bottom out force, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be more suitable. These switches offer a higher-pitched sound profile, which some may find more appealing. With their polished finish, both switches provide a sleek typing experience, but the New North Pole V2's description of being creamy or frictionless may be more enticing to those seeking an effortless and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches have their distinctive features that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider these aspects when making your choice. Overall, both switches are great options that can enhance your typing experience.
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