Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often gravitate towards the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Huano Strawberry Latte, both of which are linear switches designed to offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. The New North Pole V2 stands out with its crisper feel, achieved by the removal of the rubber dampener from its predecessor, while still preserving the signature frictionless glide that has garnered a loyal following. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte switch is crafted with Huano's latest molds, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience complemented by a balanced sound profile—neither overly quiet nor excessively resonant. Therefore, if you prioritize a clean, tactile response with minimal dampening, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be your best bet. Conversely, if you desire a unique sound character alongside a fluid and consistent keystroke, then the Huano Strawberry Latte could be the ideal choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
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
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Huano Strawberry Latte switches present distinct characteristics that impact their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The New North Pole V2 uses polycarbonate for its top and bottom housings, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant quality, making it especially advantageous for users who favor a higher-pitched feedback when typing. Furthermore, the polycarbonate's translucency is beneficial for enhancing RGB lighting effects, as the bright illumination easily shines through, adding a visual dimension to the typing experience.
In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte employs a combination of POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. POK, or polyketone, provides a smooth operation due to its low coefficient of friction, while also being exceptionally strong and durable, which enhances the overall lifespan of the switch. The nylon bottom housing, however, is characterized by its softer composition, which absorbs sound better than polycarbonate. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys bottom out, contrasting notably with the sharper sounds produced by the New North Pole V2. Therefore, the duality in their materials leads to differing tactile sensations and auditory feedback during use.
Ultimately, while both switches feature unique materials that cater to different preferences, their varying qualities combine to create distinctive yet complementary experiences. The New North Pole V2's polycarbonate construction ensures a bright, resonant sound across both top and bottom housings, while the Strawberry Latte’s combination of POK and nylon leads to a smooth, clacky type feel paired with a rounder sound profile. Thus, if users desire a balance of characteristics seen in both switches, they can achieve similar results by selecting a switch with hybrid materials that optimize the benefits of both polycarbonate's crispness and nylon's sound absorption, allowing for a blend of both experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, distinct differences emerge that cater to varying typing preferences. The New North Pole V2 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which positions it in the medium category. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte boasts a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Strawberry Latte notably easier to press, ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the New North Pole V2’s heavier forces may appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel while typing. Therefore, choosing between these switches ultimately hinges on personal preference for either a lighter or a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a distinct difference. The New North Pole V2 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Latte has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the New North Pole V2 the longer option, offering a more substantial depth that some users may find satisfying for their typing experience. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Strawberry Latte aligns with a trend favored by gamers who prefer quicker response times due to the reduced travel distance. Those who appreciate a more abrupt feel might gravitate towards the Strawberry Latte, while users seeking a heartier depth may prefer the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing dynamics and responsiveness.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 switch produces a crisp typing experience, particularly noted for its clear and defined actuation without the muffling effect of a rubber dampener. This allows for a more pronounced auditory feedback, perfect for those who appreciate a sharper keystroke sound. Meanwhile, the Huano Strawberry Latte switch features a balanced sound profile that strikes a harmony between loud and soft, creating a pleasant auditory experience that won't overwhelm yet still offers some character as you type. Both switches can vary in sound based on the keyboard and keycap choice, but the distinct sound profiles give each its own charm.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 is quite exceptional, characterized by its polished, creamy, and frictionless attributes. This results in a smooth and refined typing experience, where each keystroke feels effortless and satisfying, thanks to reduced friction and a sleek design. The buttery sensation of the switch allows for a truly enjoyable typing journey, minimizing resistance. In contrast, details regarding the feel of the Huano Strawberry Latte switch are not provided, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, the New North Pole’s creamy and polished nature suggests that the tactile and tactile experiences could be distinct.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and Huano Strawberry Latte switches offer unique qualities, the New North Pole V2 stands out with its crisply defined sound and exceptional feel that emphasizes smoothness and fluidity. The Strawberry Latte, while noted for its balanced sound profile, leaves a bit of mystery regarding its overall feel. Users who prioritize sound clarity and a frictionless typing experience may find the New North Pole V2 more in line with their preferences. Ultimately, both switches cater to different tastes, but the New North Pole V2 has the edge in the qualities defined here.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Huano Strawberry Latte largely depends on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you’re someone who enjoys a more controlled typing experience with a medium actuation force of 62.5 grams, you might find the New North Pole V2 to be ideal, especially if you appreciate a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. This switch excels in providing a crisp and seamless typing experience, making it well-suited for productivity tasks or long sessions of typing where precision is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of just 45 grams, the Strawberry Latte could be more up your alley. Its super smooth action and balanced sound profile make it more forgiving and casual, so it's great for gaming or leisurely typing where speed and comfort matter more than precision. Ultimately, both switches deliver distinct experiences, so consider what aspects—force, sound, and feel—align best with your typing style and specific needs.
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