Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gateron Smoothie Silver 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 Gateron Smoothie Silver are both excellent linear switches with distinct features. The New North Pole V2 is renowned for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience due to the removal of the rubber dampener, providing a crisp and seamless typing feel. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a short travel distance for quick actuation, a unique thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. Both switches have their own advantages, but ultimately the choice between them depends on personal preference. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it is evident that there are distinct differences in the sound profiles produced by the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the New North Pole V2 creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver produces a deeper, more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a certain type of sound when typing.
Furthermore, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 adds to the clear and resonant sound profile of the switch, while the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver enhances the deeper and more muted sound. The differences in the bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. These distinctions in sound profiles between the two switches provide users with a choice based on their preference for a specific typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the New North Pole V2 features polycarbonate housings that create a sharper and crisper sound, the Smoothie Silver with its POM housings produces a deeper and more muted sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for the sound profile and typing experience they desire.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Smoothie Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the New North Pole V2 is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the New North Pole V2 is 62.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unknown. This means that while the Smoothie Silver may require less force to initiate a keystroke, the New North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The New North Pole V2 offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie Silver, which may provide a more traditional typing experience with a bit more depth to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's shorter travel distance could appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 linear switch is often described as having a crisp and clean typing sound due to the absence of a rubber dampener, allowing for a more direct experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for producing a thocky sound, providing a unique auditory feedback that some users find satisfying. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 switch is often praised for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and refined keypress that feels luxurious and effortless. Users appreciate the frictionless feel of these switches, which allows for a seamless typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, providing a fast and responsive typing experience that some users find exhilarating.
Overall, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the New North Pole V2 provides a more traditional and refined typing experience with its frictionless feel and crisp sound, the Smoothie Silver switch offers a lightning-fast actuation and a thocky sound that may appeal to those seeking a more unconventional typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. Whether opting for the New North Pole V2 or the Smoothie Silver, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a crisp typing experience with a frictionless glide, then the New North Pole V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, then the Smoothie Silver would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should come down to your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs.
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