Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly impact the typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches. The New North Pole V2 switches are linear and known for their polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. With the removal of the rubber dampener, these switches offer a crisper typing experience while still maintaining the seamless glide that Gateron is known for. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are tactile and offer a pronounced and satisfying tactile bump. With a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke is met with a satisfying resistance, making typing a truly immersive experience. These switches also provide a unique sound profile, thanks to Wuque Studios' nylon housings, creating a captivating and resonant "thocky" sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a more pronounced typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for better RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing aspect.
In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a distinct typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer composition of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This can be desirable for individuals seeking a quieter, more subdued typing experience. While lacking the translucency for RGB lighting, the nylon top housing still holds its own in terms of functionality and sound quality.
Moving to the bottom housing, the New North Pole V2 boasts a polycarbonate material once again. As mentioned before, this contributes to a sharp and resonant sound profile. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is significant, as it influences the overall typing experience. With the polycarbonate bottom housing, users can expect a more pronounced and tactile sensation when pressing down on the keys.
On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, continuing its theme of a softer and fuller sound profile. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound makes for a quieter and more cushioned bottom-out experience. This can be preferable for those who prefer a softer feel and want to avoid excessive noise. The nylon bottom housing's impact on sound and feel complements the overall performance of the switch, providing a satisfying typing experience.
Despite their differences, both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 work harmoniously to create a crisp and resonant sound, while the nylon top and bottom housing of the WS Heavy Tactile yield a deeper and fuller sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The New North Pole V2 has a medium actuation force of 50 grams, meaning it requires a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile is unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, the New North Pole V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating that the keys need to be pressed all the way down with a slightly higher amount of force compared to the WS Heavy Tactile, which has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the WS Heavy Tactile, as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This can be particularly useful for those who use their keyboards for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, and for them, switches with heavier forces such as the New North Pole V2 would be a better choice.
While the actuation force for the WS Heavy Tactile remains unknown, it is clear that the New North Pole V2 requires a slightly higher force for both actuation and bottom out compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. However, if the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile is similar to or lighter than the New North Pole V2, users can expect comparable results in terms of typing experience with a lighter overall force.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile would be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, may benefit from this as it allows for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would be a better choice with its longer travel distance. This can provide a more satisfying and substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing 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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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 Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as having a clean and smooth sound profile. Due to the removal of the rubber dampener, the switch provides a crisper typing experience. While the specific sound characteristics of the New North Pole V2 are unknown, users can expect a seamless glide and smoothness that is characteristic of the North Pole lineup.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers a captivating sound profile. Described as "clacky," "high-pitched," and "resonant," the switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This sound profile creates a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, contributing to an immersive typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its polished and frictionless typing experience. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The absence of a rubber dampener allows for a seamless glide and effortless typing, providing a fluid travel sensation.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers an invigorating and accentuated tactile experience. With a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke is imbued with a satisfying resistance, creating a pronounced tactile bump. The switch provides moderate to firm actuation force, snappy and reactive feel, and an overall immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offers a clean and smooth sound profile, and a polished and frictionless feel, allowing for a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch provides a captivating sound profile with pronounced tactile feedback, and an invigorating typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, a crisper typing experience, and a seamless glide, then the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is a great choice for you. It offers a polished and frictionless feel, providing smooth and effortless typing. In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2 is not described in the given information, so it is hard to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a pronounced tactile bump, and a captivating sound profile, then the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is the one for you. With its 45 gram bottom out force, it provides a tactile experience with satisfying resistance, making every keystroke engaging and immersive. The Wuque Heavy Tactile switches also have a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile that adds to the overall experience.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smoother typing experience with medium force, go for the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch. But if you prefer a lighter switch with a pronounced tactile bump and captivating sound, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is the way to go. As a newcomer, exploring different switch options and considering factors like force, feel, and sound will help you find the perfect switch for your typing needs.
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