Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, there are clear distinctions in their design and performance. The New North Pole V2 is lauded for its seamless glide and smooth typing experience, thanks to the removal of a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper feel while still maintaining a frictionless sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow stands out for its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, providing a balanced and invigorating typing experience. While the New North Pole V2 is described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the Thunder Shadow is characterized as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral'. Each switch offers unique benefits, catering to different preferences in typing feedback and sound. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's bottom housing is made of nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing material. While the New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Thunder Shadow utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. This results in a different sound profile when typing on the switches, with the New North Pole V2 offering a sharper and crisper sound, while the Thunder Shadow provides a deeper and fuller sound. The impact of the housing material is felt when bottoming out the keys, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Aflion Thunder Shadow showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the sound profile of both switches, creating a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. In this aspect, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either of these switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the New North Pole V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Thunder Shadow is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 62.5 grams. The New North Pole V2 provides a medium actuation and bottom out force, while the Thunder Shadow offers a medium-heavy bottom out force without information on the actuation force. Despite the slight difference in force requirements, both switches offer a similar typing experience for those who prefer a medium to medium-heavy feel during keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the Thunder Shadow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 4 mm of the New North Pole V2. The shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, while the slightly longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches offer unique experiences when it comes to travel distance, with the Thunder Shadow being the shorter option and the New North Pole V2 providing a slightly longer journey when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for individual users.
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 Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for a variety of settings. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch also boasts a neutral sound signature, which complements its balanced tactile feedback. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience without distracting noise, ensuring a quiet and seamless workflow.
In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal friction. In comparison, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating, providing a pronounced tactile bump and a firm actuation force that creates an immersive typing sensation. While the New North Pole V2 focuses on a sleek and effortless typing experience, the Thunder Shadow offers a more tactile and responsive feel for users who prefer a bit more feedback.
Overall, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the New North Pole V2 excels in providing a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow stands out for its invigorating tactile feedback and medium weight feel. Depending on whether you prioritize a polished and creamy typing feel or a more tactile and responsive sensation, both switches offer a high-quality experience that is sure to enhance your typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, you should first think about the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a polished, creamy, or frictionless feel with a medium bottom-out force, then the New North Pole V2 might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an invigorating tactile bump, a neutral sound signature, and a slightly heavier bottom-out force, then the Thunder Shadow could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable.
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