Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2, a linear switch, with the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, we see two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The New North Pole V2 is praised for its polished, creamy feel and frictionless typing experience, thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener without sacrificing smoothness. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches offer a medium tactility and a light touch, providing a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro distinguishes itself with its nylon bottom housing. This difference in materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing. The New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound experience. The split between housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches allows users to feel the qualities of each material when pressing down on the keys, with the bottom housing having a more noticeable impact on the sound and feel.
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both prioritize sound quality and aesthetics in their design. While both switches feature polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the choice of nylon for the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's bottom housing creates a different sound experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. Overall, the differences in housing materials between the two switches result in unique sound profiles and typing experiences for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the New North Pole V2 is the heavier of the two. The New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams with an unknown bottom out force. The actuation force for both switches is relatively close, with the Violet Gold Pro being slightly lighter. In terms of bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 requires more force to fully press the key compared to the Violet Gold Pro. This makes the New North Pole V2 more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Violet Gold Pro may be better for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the weight of the switches plays a significant role in determining the typing experience for users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we can see that the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Violet Gold Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the New North Pole V2 being slightly longer than the Violet Gold Pro. When it comes to preference, gamers may lean towards the Violet Gold Pro for its shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the New North Pole V2 with its slightly longer travel distance. 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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 is known for a neutral sound profile that is not overly loud or quiet, providing a pleasant typing experience suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch also offers a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users in various settings.
In terms of feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction. This results in a seamless and effortless typing sensation that many users appreciate. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a stepped tactile feedback, giving users a milder sensation compared to other more pronounced tactile switches. This subtle tactility can be ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the New North Pole V2 boasts a frictionless typing feel and a balanced sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and can deliver similar results based on user preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a crisper and frictionless typing feel with a medium bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactile experience with a light touch and neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing feel and sound profile that align with your typing preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
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