Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Dareu Sky POM stand out as linear options with unique characteristics. The New North Pole V2 is renowned for its removal of a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience while maintaining its signature frictionless feel. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch stands out for being crafted entirely from POM material, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force at a more affordable price point. Both switches offer different qualities - the New North Pole V2 being 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', while the Sky POM is described as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Dareu Sky POM both feature top housings with unique characteristics. While the New North Pole V2 uses a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, the Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing for a deeper and more muted sound. The polycarbonate top housing in the New North Pole V2 allows for a clear and resonant sound, ideal for those looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing in the Sky POM creates a distinct sound that is on the deeper side, providing a different typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the switch results in a sharp, crisp sound profile that complements the top housing's characteristics. Conversely, the Dareu Sky POM has a nylon bottom housing, offering a different typing experience compared to its polycarbonate top housing. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile that adds depth to the overall typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Dareu Sky POM differ, they each contribute unique qualities to the switches. The split characteristics between the top and bottom housings affect the typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether using the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 for a sharp and clear sound profile or the POM and nylon housings of the Sky POM for a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer distinct typing experiences for users to enjoy.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch have noticeable differences. The New North Pole V2 requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Sky POM only needs 40 grams, making it lighter. In terms of bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 has a heavier weight of 62.5 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Sky POM. This means that the New North Pole V2 offers a more substantial typing experience due to the higher bottom out force, while the Sky POM provides a lighter keystroke for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have their advantages, with the New North Pole V2 being more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Sky POM is better for users looking for a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the New North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky POM. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more traditional depth to their keystrokes may find the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 lack of a rubber dampener, providing a crisper typing experience while still maintaining a frictionless typing feel. The Dareu Sky POM linear switch, on the other hand, is characterized by a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. When it comes to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance. Overall, both switches provide a premium typing experience with distinct characteristics in sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Depending on personal preference, users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and performance from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience with a crisper feel, the New North Pole V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch made entirely from premium POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force with a low-pitched, buttery, and silky feel, then the Sky POM switch could be the ideal fit for your typing needs. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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