Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, both linear switches with unique features. The Gateron New North Pole V2 is known for its polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener while maintaining a seamless glide and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out for its clacky, marbly, resonant, silky, and creamy properties, with a metallic insert in the stem base for a bright sound profile and a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. Each switch offers a distinct typing experience that caters 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a clear and resonant tone. On the other hand, the WS Jade utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both switches offer unique sound qualities, the difference in housing materials ultimately leads to distinct auditory experiences for the user.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the New North Pole V2 and WS Jade switches aim to provide an excellent typing experience. The polycarbonate housings of the New North Pole V2 contribute to a more crisp and clear sound profile, while the POM housings of the WS Jade offer a pleasing and unique tone. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the New North Pole V2 leaning towards a sharper tone and the WS Jade offering a deeper sound. Regardless of the material used, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing feel and sound for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade ultimately comes down to individual preference in sound and typing experience. While the polycarbonate housings of the New North Pole V2 deliver a higher-pitched and clearer sound, the POM housings of the WS Jade offer a more muted and deeper tone. Whether you prefer a sharper or more soothing sound profile, both switches are crafted with precision and quality to meet the demands of mechanical keyboard users. Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between these switches allows for a variety of sound experiences for users to enjoy.
Weight
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally responsive in triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 is slightly heavier at 62.5 grams compared to the WS Jade at 60 grams. This means that the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The difference in bottom out force may be subtle, but it can impact the overall typing feel and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is clear that the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. In general, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, so users can expect a similar typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its quiet operation thanks to the removal of the rubber dampener, providing a crisp and smooth typing experience without the added noise. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offers a distinctive clacky and resonant sound profile due to the metallic insert in the stem base, creating a bright and percussive sound when pressed. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the New North Pole V2 may be more suitable, while the WS Jade is ideal for those who enjoy a more audible and satisfying typing sound.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and premium typing experience. The Gateron New North Pole V2 switch boasts a polished and frictionless feel, allowing for effortless key presses with minimal resistance. Users can expect a sleek and refined typing experience with a creamy sensation similar to gliding fingers across the keys. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch provides a silky and creamy typing feel, enhancing overall smoothness and reducing friction for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasant and satisfying tactile feedback, making them suitable options for those seeking a premium typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch each have their unique features that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the New North Pole V2 focuses on a quiet and frictionless typing experience, the WS Jade offers a more audible and resonant sound profile with a silky and creamy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches are designed to provide a premium typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy smooth and satisfying keystrokes regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the differences in their characteristics. If you prioritize a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a bright metallic sound profile with a creamy and smooth typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Jade could be the switch for you. Remember to also consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to align with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you seek. Happy typing!
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