Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, we find two linear switches that excel in providing a smooth typing experience. The New North Pole V2 stands out for its polished and creamy feel, offering a frictionless typing experience without the need for a rubber dampener. On the other hand, the Roselle impresses with its inherent material blend that delivers an ethereally smooth sensation, accompanied by a subtle low-pitched sound signature. Both switches are categorized as frictionless, but the Roselle also boasts a bassy and low-pitched typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the POM top housing of the HC Studio Roselle. The polycarbonate material is stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the POM material of the Roselle produces a deeper and more muted sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the New North Pole V2 allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, providing a visually appealing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the New North Pole V2 and the Roselle utilize different materials. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the switch when pressed, while the POM bottom housing of the Roselle creates a more pleasing and unique sound with a deeper tone. The qualities of each bottom housing material impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, influencing the user experience with each keystroke.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HC Studio Roselle ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. While the New North Pole V2 offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the Roselle provides a deeper and more muted sound thanks to its POM top and bottom housings. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their desired sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the Roselle is the lighter of the two. The Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. Both switches provide a smooth and consistent typing experience, but the Roselle offers a slightly lighter touch, which may be preferred by those who type for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The New North Pole V2 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Roselle linear switch. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the North Pole V2 offering a bit more depth when pressed compared to the Roselle. Gamers may prefer the Roselle for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may prefer the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is highlighted for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key travel. Users can expect reduced friction and effortless keystrokes due to the polished finish of the switch. Similarly, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch also boasts a frictionless typing experience, along with a mild feel that is gentle and approachable to most users. Both switches prioritize smoothness in keypresses, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a sleek and effortless feel while typing.
In conclusion, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the New North Pole V2 provides a neutral sound profile and a polished typing feel, the Roselle offers a low-pitched and bassy sound with a mild and frictionless typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, either switch can cater to your specific needs and provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar smoothness and satisfaction in keypresses with both switches, despite their distinct sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a crisper typing feel with a medium bottom out force and a frictionless glide, the New North Pole V2 may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation with a slightly lower bottom out force, the Roselle could be the better option. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and priorities. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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