Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some key differences to consider. The New North Pole V2 is admired for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener while still maintaining a seamless glide. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smooth feel, with a delicate 42g actuation force. While the New North Pole V2 offers a crisper typing experience, the HMX Swift provides a unique depth in sound and a feather-light actuation force. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Swift, we see that both switches have different top housing materials - polycarbonate for the New North Pole V2 and nylon for the Swift. The polycarbonate top housing of the New North Pole V2 creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Swift produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the two materials result in different sound profiles, both are known for enhancing the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. Meanwhile, the Swift has a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The differences in bottom housing materials further highlight the distinct sound profiles each switch offers. Despite the variations, both switches prioritize sound quality and typing feel, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
In considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon are distributed between the top and bottom housings of the switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Although the New North Pole V2 and the HMX Swift have different housing materials that result in contrasting sound profiles, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Weight
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The New North Pole V2 has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a balance between light and heavy typing. On the other hand, the Swift offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Swift requires less force to activate a keystroke and reach the bottom, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which can be beneficial for users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches are very similar in their travel distances, with the Swift being slightly shorter. A 0.1 mm difference may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who are more sensitive to key feel, it may have an impact on their typing experience. Overall, both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances and offer a balance between responsiveness and depth. Whether you choose the New North Pole V2 or the Swift, you can expect a comfortable typing experience with a familiar amount of 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 is known for its smooth and quiet typing experience, thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener which enhances the crispness of each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch offers a unique deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, giving it a distinct clacky and percussive sound when pressed. However, it is essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 shines with its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a frictionless glide and smooth key travel that is highly sought after by enthusiasts. The switch provides a refined and sleek sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a light and responsive typing feel. The Swift switch also includes bouncy and creamy characteristics, providing a lively and silky smooth typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Swift switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the New North Pole V2 excels in providing a polished and frictionless typing experience with a quiet sound profile, the HMX Swift stands out with its deep sound signature and easy-to-press feel. Depending on one's personal preference for sound and typing feel, both switches present compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize 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 prefer a lighter bottom out force, an easy-to-press, feathery feel, and a deeper sound profile with a clacky sound signature, then the HMX Swift might be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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