Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that demand attention are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4T. Each switch offers unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The New North Pole V2, a linear switch, is best known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Unlike its predecessor, this switch no longer has a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing feel while maintaining the seamless glide and smoothness that users adore. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, stands out with its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. With its bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your ultimate typing experience.

By the numbers

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4T switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing.

In contrast, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This exclusive plastic blend provides a deep and rich sound profile thanks to its softness. Although it may not produce as sharp or high-pitched of a sound as the polycarbonate housing, the U4T compensates with a more mellow and vibrant tone.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches maintain their respective housing materials, resulting in varying sound and feel characteristics. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 continues to contribute to its sharper and crisper sound profile. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the U4T utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which further enhances the deep and rich sound profile. It brings a unique tactile experience, particularly noticeable during key bottom-outs.

While the New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4T differ in their housing materials, they both prioritize delivering an exceptional sound profile. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the New North Pole V2 work harmoniously to create a clear and resonant sound, while the proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the U4T produce a deep and mellow tone. Ultimately, both switches offer unique experiences and cater to different preferences, ensuring satisfying results for enthusiasts seeking quality sound from their mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we can observe both similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the New North Pole V2 requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the actuation force of the U4T is unavailable. Therefore, in terms of actuation force, it can be concluded that the New North Pole V2 is lighter.

Now moving on to the bottom out force, both switches have a medium level of force required. The New North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, whereas the U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams. In this aspect, we can see that the U4T is slightly lighter than the New North Pole V2.

Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the New North Pole V2, as its actuation force is lighter, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who favor a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the U4T, as its bottom out force is slightly lighter.

Overall, while the actuation force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is lighter than that of the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, the bottom out forces are quite similar. Therefore, using either switch would provide a comparable typing experience, albeit with slight variations in the force required for actuation.

Travel distance

The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience a consistent 4 mm distance of travel. Both switches offer a similar tactile feel and level of responsiveness due to their equal travel distance. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron New North Pole V2 or the Gazzew U4T, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of the travel distance and overall typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch provides a smooth and seamless typing experience. It is known for its frictionless glide and smoothness, giving users a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile along with a strong and assertive tactile feedback. Each keystroke on the U4T provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, with the New North Pole V2 delivering a smoother sound and the U4T providing a deeper and richer sound profile.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the New North Pole V2 is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. It offers a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on the New North Pole V2 feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, resulting in a sleek and satisfying sensation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is characterized by its sharp tactile feedback. With each keypress, users can feel a strong and crisp tactile bump, making it distinct and satisfying.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer contrasting qualities. The New North Pole V2 excels in providing a frictionless typing experience with a smooth sound profile. On the other hand, the U4T stands out with its bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique benefits to users based on their preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a smooth and seamless typing experience with a softer sound, the New North Pole V2 will be a great option. Alternatively, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a strong tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, it is important to consider personal preferences and try out different switches to determine the best fit for your typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would be a great choice. It offers a crisper typing experience without the rubber dampener, while still maintaining the frictionless glide and smoothness that users love. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gazzew U4T would be the way to go. It provides a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, giving you a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with every keystroke. When it comes to sound, the New North Pole V2 offers a unique sound profile, while the U4T delivers a bassy thock. In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, while the U4T provides a sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more