Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are many options to consider. Two popular choices are the Gateron New North Pole V2, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch. The Gateron New North Pole V2 is known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Unlike its predecessor, this switch no longer has a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper feel while still maintaining the seamless glide and smoothness that users have come to love. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck is perfect. With a neutral, mild, buttery, and polished feel, these switches offer a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. Both switches have their unique benefits, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Duck both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, particularly when used with RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and appearance, the two switches offer similar results.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the impact and resulting sound will primarily be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be more affected by the properties of the top housing. This difference in housing materials can lead to variations in sound and tactile experience between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Duck, even if they both utilize polycarbonate.
Overall, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Duck offer the benefits of using polycarbonate as the material for their top and bottom housings. The resulting sound profile is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those looking to enhance their keyboard aesthetics with RGB lighting. However, it is worth considering any differences in the top and bottom housing materials, as they can impact the tactile feel and sound when using the switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch can be compared and contrasted. In terms of weight, the New North Pole V2 is lighter with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the specific actuation force of the Duck switch is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 58 grams, also falling into the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the New North Pole V2 may be a suitable choice. Its lighter actuation force allows for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, for individuals who seek a more robust and substantial typing experience, the Duck switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force may be more suitable. The heavier force can provide a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
While the actuation force of the Duck switch is unknown, the fact that both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force suggests that they provide similar results to some extent. Both switches can offer a comparable typing experience in terms of the amount of force required for bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressed down, as they both have an equal distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Gateron New North Pole V2 or the SP-Star Duck, you can expect to feel a consistent and satisfying switch response with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 clean and crisp sound profile. Without a rubber dampener, these switches provide a crisper typing experience compared to their predecessor. The Duck tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use it at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is praised for its frictionless typing feel. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener, Gateron has managed to maintain the seamless glide and smoothness that users love. The switch offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The Duck tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as having a mild and buttery feel. This means that it offers a gentle tactile typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes. It provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, making it approachable to most users. It also offers a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both switches offer their own unique qualities and experiences. The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its crisp sound and frictionless feel, providing a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck tactile switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. Both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. While they may have slight differences in sound and feel, they both aim to provide a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience. Therefore, if you prefer a linear switch with a crisper sound and a frictionless feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a more subtle tactile feel and clean sound, the Duck tactile switch would be a suitable option. However, keep in mind that the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also affect the overall sound and feel, so customization may be necessary to achieve your desired results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are several factors to consider. The New North Pole V2 is best known for its frictionless typing feel and crisp typing experience. It offers a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crisp sound profile. It has a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 58 grams.
If you prefer a switch with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience, the New North Pole V2 with its polished, creamy, or frictionless feel would be a great option. It offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, making each keystroke effortless.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a more gentle typing experience with a buttery and polished feel, the Duck switch would be a suitable choice. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a frictionless typing feel and a crisper typing experience, the New North Pole V2 is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crisp sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be a better fit. Consider your desired bottom-out force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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