Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Jwick Taro 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 Jwick Taro offer unique experiences for different preferences. The New North Pole V2 is a linear switch that is best known for its frictionless typing feel. Unlike its predecessor, it no longer has a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience. However, it still retains the seamless glide and smoothness that users have come to love. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch that offers a cozy typing experience with its snappy, medium-level of tactility. Users will also appreciate the acute and crisp clacks produced when using these switches. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and it ultimately comes down to individual preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Jwick Taro both feature polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. The aesthetic advantage of using polycarbonate in the top housing is its translucency, which is particularly useful if you plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of sound and performance, these switches will deliver similar results due to their shared housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the New North Pole V2 and the Taro differ in their choice of material. The New North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Taro opts for nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 maintains the same characteristics as its top housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Taro creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches.
It's important to note that the impact of the housing material on the overall sound profile of a switch is split between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on a switch, you will primarily feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when you release a key, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced. Understanding this division of roles can help users choose the switch that aligns with their preferred sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the New North Pole V2 is 50 grams, while the Taro's actuation force is unknown. This means that the New North Pole V2 requires a lighter force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 has a force of 62.5 grams, while the Taro has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Taro slightly heavier in terms of pressing all the way down.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions might lean towards the New North Pole V2, as its actuation force is lighter. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Taro, with its heavier bottom out force. This provides a stronger push feel, enhancing the tactile feedback during typing.
In summary, although both switches have a medium actuation force, with the New North Pole V2 being lighter, the Taro outweighs it in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and desired typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the New North Pole V2 being on the longer side and the Taro on the shorter side. Gamers, who value faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Taro switch. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 described as having a sound profile that is not specified in the given information. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate level of sound, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switches at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for providing a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The polished finish of the switch results in a smooth and refined feel, while the creamy sensation is akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The absence of friction ensures a fluid and easy keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as offering a buttery and stepped keystroke experience. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The stepped feature indicates that the switch has two stages of tactile feedback, with a mild level of pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The New North Pole V2 provides a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener while retaining the hallmark frictionless feel. It is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. On the other hand, the Taro offers a cozy typing experience with a snappy level of tactility and acute, crisp clacks. It is described as buttery and stepped. While the sound qualities of the switches are not specified for the New North Pole V2, the Taro is described as having a neutral sound profile. If you are looking for a linear switch with a polished and creamy feel, the New North Pole V2 is a great option. If you prefer a tactile switch with a buttery and stepped typing experience, the Taro is a suitable choice. Ultimately, the final result will also depend on other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a crisper and frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be the right choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams, these switches offer a seamless glide and smoothness that users love. Additionally, the New North Pole V2s no longer have a rubber dampener, resulting in a more tactile typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy and tactile typing experience, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be more suitable. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a snappy medium-level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. However, if you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, the New North Pole V2s with their polished, creamy, or frictionless feel would be your go-to choice. Conversely, if you prefer a smooth and fluid keystroke, the Taro switches with their buttery sensation would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for typing experience and desired sound profile.
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