Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Sakura Pink. These switches share some similarities, such as their linear nature and the frictionless typing feel they provide. The New North Pole V2, however, distinguishes itself by eliminating the rubber dampener found in its predecessor, resulting in a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches shine with their incredibly light 35g actuation force, making them ideal for those with a delicate touch. Additionally, these switches produce a playful poppy sound, adding a unique flair to your typing sessions. Both switches fall under the creamy and frictionless category, ensuring smooth and effortless typing. However, let's delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Sakura Pink both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top and bottom housings. This material choice creates a similar result for both switches in terms of sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, which adds to the overall typing experience. Additionally, the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting.
Although both switches share similarities in their choice of top and bottom housing material, they also differ in terms of their design and construction. While the New North Pole V2 and the Sakura Pink utilize polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings, the way these components are implemented may vary. The specific design characteristics of each switch can affect the overall typing experience, including the sound and feel. Therefore, even though they share the same housing material, the resulting sound profiles may still differ slightly.
When examining the impact of the top and bottom housing materials, it's important to consider the specific qualities each component brings to the overall switch performance. While the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. By using polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches can offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience. However, slight variations in the design and implementation of these components may still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences. The New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sakura Pink's lighter actuation force of 35 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the New North Pole V2 requires a force of 62.5 grams, while the Sakura Pink only needs 45 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sakura Pink switch would be the ideal choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower compared to the New North Pole V2. This lighter actuation force allows for quicker keystrokes and may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the New North Pole V2 would provide a better option. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the New North Pole V2 switch contribute to a more satisfying and tactile typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. If a lighter switch is desired, the Sakura Pink provides a smoother and faster experience. However, those who prefer the feeling of a heavier switch would find satisfaction with the New North Pole V2. It is also worth noting that these switches share similarities in terms of the medium actuation and bottom out forces, which may result in similar outcomes for some users seeking a balanced typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard switch. In the case of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches offer similar results.
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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 switches are not specifically described in the provided information. However, based on the description of a "crisper typing experience" and the retention of the smoothness and seamless glide of the previous North Pole lineup, it can be assumed that the sound produced by these switches would be on the quieter side. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are described as producing a "delightfully poppy sound, reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped." This indicates that the Sakura Pink switches have a more pronounced and playful sound compared to the New North Pole V2.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 switches are described as having a "frictionless typing feel" while also being "polished" and "creamy." This suggests that they offer a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Sakura Pink switches, on the other hand, are described as "buttery," "creamy," and "easy-to-press." These terms highlight the smooth and effortless keystroke experience provided by the Sakura Pink switches, with easy actuation and low resistance. Both switches are also described as "frictionless," indicating a lack of resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches are known for their crisper typing experience, seamless glide, and smoothness, but specific information regarding their sound and feel is not provided. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switches are known for their super light actuation force, providing a delicate and effortless typing experience. They produce a poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap and offer a buttery, creamy, and frictionless feel. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the New North Pole V2 switches are unknown, it can be expected that they would provide similar smoothness and a quieter typing experience compared to the Sakura Pink switches. However, the Sakura Pink switches offer a more playful and pronounced sound, making them a suitable choice for those seeking a more distinctive auditory experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and typing style. The New North Pole V2 is best suited for those who prefer a medium bottom out force, offering a balance between responsiveness and comfort. It is known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, providing a sleek and smooth typing experience. In terms of sound, it is described as smooth. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink is ideal for delicate typists who prefer a lighter touch. With its light 45g bottom out force, it offers an easy-to-press and smooth buttery feel, minimizing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Sakura Pink produces a delightfully poppy sound, adding a playful touch to your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a medium or light bottom out force and whether you prioritize a polished or buttery feel. Both switches provide a frictionless typing experience, ensuring effortless keystrokes. Finally, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing needs when making a decision.
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