Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4Tx. The New North Pole V2 is a linear switch that is best known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Gateron has managed to retain the seamless glide and smoothness that users love, even with the removal of the rubber dampener. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that marries the best of both worlds. It offers a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. Each press provides a sharp, satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their housing materials. The New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate material for both its top and bottom housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more aesthetically pleasing lighting display. In contrast, the U4Tx employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top and bottom housing. This particular plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. The softer material of the Gazzew blend contributes to a different sound experience compared to the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4Tx differ, they both aim to deliver distinctive sound profiles. The polycarbonate housing found in the New North Pole V2 creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Gazzew blend of the U4Tx emphasizes a rich and deep sound. Despite these differences, both housing materials enhance the overall sound experience of the switches. However, it is important to note that the qualities of the sound are divided between the top and bottom housing of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the sound when releasing a key is mainly shaped by the top housing.
In summary, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4Tx showcase distinct housing materials with varying effects on the sound produced by the switches. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the proprietary Gazzew blend housing of the U4Tx produces a rich and deep sound. Both materials have their advantages and impact different aspects of the switch's sound experience. Therefore, the housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound qualities and help differentiate these switches from each other.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Gateron switch is 50 grams, while the force required for the Gazzew switch is unfortunately unknown. Both switches, however, have a medium level actuation force.
In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron switch requires 62.5 grams of force, while the Gazzew switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as they allow for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue, making them ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, on the other hand, may prefer switches with heavier forces.
Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches vary slightly, both are categorized as medium in terms of actuation, with the Gazzew U4Tx being slightly heavier in bottom out force compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2. Therefore, they can provide similar results for users seeking a medium typing experience, with the Gazzew switch offering a slightly heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional and standard travel distance. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the U4Tx switch more suitable for gamers who prefer faster response times, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and deep feel when typing, the Gateron New North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 not specifically described in the provided information. However, based on its retention of the hallmark feature of a frictionless typing feel, it can be inferred that the switch is likely to produce a smooth and quiet sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is described as having a "deep, resonant 'thock'" when bottoming out and a "whisper-quiet stealth" when topping out. This indicates that the U4Tx switch offers a bassy sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, while also minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 linear switch is described as offering a frictionless typing experience with a seamless glide and smoothness. This indicates that the switch provides a polished and smooth typing experience, reducing friction and allowing for effortless and fluid key travel. It can be inferred that the New North Pole V2 switch offers a sleek and refined feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump that is prominent and distinct with each keypress. This suggests that the U4Tx switch provides a high feedback intensity, offering a sharp and crisp tactile feel.
Taking into account the available information, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its frictionless typing feel and seamless glide, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the specific sound profile is not described, it can be inferred that the switch is likely to produce a quiet and smooth sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out sound. Both switches provide unique qualities in terms of feel and sound, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a smoother, frictionless typing experience (New North Pole V2) or a more pronounced tactile feedback with a refined sound profile (U4Tx). Ultimately, individuals should consider their own preferences and factors such as keyboard board and keycaps when selecting between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, both switches would be suitable options, with the New North Pole V2 being slightly lighter at 62.5 grams and the U4Tx being medium-heavy at 65 grams.
If you value a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 would be the recommended choice. Gateron has removed the rubber dampener from this switch, resulting in a seamless glide and the maintenance of smoothness that users have come to love.
On the other hand, if you appreciate a refined sound profile and enjoy a satisfying tactile bump, the U4Tx switch would be more suitable. With its marriage of deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and whisper-quiet topping out, the U4Tx offers an acoustically pleasing and luxurious typing experience. Additionally, the U4Tx provides a sharp, high feedback intensity tactile bump with each keypress.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4Tx switches depends on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Consider the characteristics of each switch and choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences to ensure an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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