Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer distinct features and experiences. The New North Pole V2, a linear switch, has gained popularity for its crisp typing experience and frictionless feel. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer has a rubber dampener, allowing for a seamless glide and smoothness that users love. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch from Aflion, provides a medium level of tactility that is highly recommended for those seeking a tactile switch. It boasts a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in an approachable tactility. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to enable you to make the best decision in selecting the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, specifically the polycarbonate top and bottom housings, offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes them ideal for users seeking a clear and resonant sound experience when typing or gaming.
In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate is translucent, allowing for the passage of light. This feature is especially advantageous for users planning to use RGB lighting, as the clear housing will enhance the visual effects of the lighting system. Whether it is the Gateron New North Pole V2 or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the polycarbonate top housing provides the same benefit of showcasing the RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall keyboard setup.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, depending on the specific configuration of each switch, users may experience variations in the overall sound profile and tactile feedback.
Despite these potential differences, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintain the fundamental advantages of polycarbonate as a housing material. By opting for either switch, users can expect a stiffer plastic that contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, as well as the aesthetic appeal of a translucent top housing for enhanced RGB lighting effects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is slightly heavier at 50 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, providing a balanced feel for typing.
In terms of bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 requires a heavier force of 62.5 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This indicates that the New North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push to fully depress the switch, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a slightly lighter feel.
Considering weight preferences, individuals who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, those seeking a more solid and pronounced keystroke may opt for the New North Pole V2 with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, both switches offer similar results within the medium range, but with slight variations to accommodate different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience an identical distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Consequently, both switches will provide similar results in terms of the distance you feel when typing or gaming. Therefore, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing or gaming 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 best known for its crisp and clean typing experience. With the removal of the rubber dampener, users can expect a more distinct sound profile, but the exact sound characteristics are unknown. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, which can enhance the auditory experience during typing. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the New North Pole V2 is described as offering a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The polished and creamy attributes refer to the smooth and refined finish of the switch, which results in reduced friction and a sleek typing sensation. The frictionless characteristic ensures an effortless and fluid key travel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as being bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel and can be satisfying for those who enjoy a bit of rebound when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities for keyboard enthusiasts. The New North Pole V2 is known for its frictionless typing feel and maintains a seamless glide and smoothness, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a medium level of tactility and features a deep and thocky sound profile. Although the specific sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 are unknown, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience. If you are looking for a smooth and refined typing sensation, the New North Pole V2 is a great choice, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bouncy tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on the individual's preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a crisper typing experience with a frictionless glide, the New North Pole V2 is the way to go. Its polished or creamy feel ensures reduced friction, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. As for sound, the New North Pole V2 has its own distinct sound profile that is not described in the given information.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides an approachable tactility while typing. The switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like rebound when pressed.
In summary, if you value a crisp and frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is the choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a bouncy feel and a deep sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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