Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both offer unique features that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers. The New North Pole V2 stands out for its frictionless typing feel, celebrated for its polished and creamy texture, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a smooth, responsive experience without the interference of a rubber dampener. In contrast, the WS POM+ distinguishes itself with its all-POM construction, delivering a deeply satisfying "thock" sound signature and a buttery-smooth keystroke, appealing especially to those who enjoy a more auditory feedback during their typing sessions. While both switches are linear and prioritize smoothness, the New North Pole V2 offers a more minimalist, crisper typing experience, whereas the WS POM+ is favored for its acoustic and tactile satisfaction. 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
55g
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ provide a stark contrast in terms of acoustic properties and tactile experiences. The New North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This choice results in a sound profile that is characterized by sharpness and clarity, delivering a higher-pitched and crisper auditory feedback. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes significantly to the distinct resonant sounds that arise from key presses, making it particularly suitable for users who appreciate brightness and precision in their switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal, particularly for setups with RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant visual effects.
In contrast, the WS POM+ employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, which introduces a notably different sound signature. POM is known for creating a deeper, more muted sound profile that yields an incredibly pleasing auditory experience. The characteristics of POM as a housing material offer a softer touch, resulting in a switch that feels less harsh on bottoming out. This leads to a more rounded and full sound when the switch is engaged, catering to those who prefer a more subdued acoustic response. While POM's muted nature may appeal to some, it provides an entirely different user experience compared to the crisper tones produced by polycarbonate.
Despite these differences, both switches ultimately deliver unique experiences based on their respective housing materials. If the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ were to be combined in a user’s setup, one could find a range of sound profiles across the two switches, with sharper sounds from the polycarbonate housings of the New North Pole V2 contrasting against the deeper, more muted tones of the WS POM+. Users seeking a variety of experiences might choose to alternate between the two, capitalizing on the advantages of each material in response to their typing preferences or ambient environment. Thus, while the two switches differ fundamentally in their construction and resulting sounds, they both serve their purpose effectively, ultimately allowing for a tailored keyboard 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 POM+ linear switch, notable differences emerge. The New North Pole V2 features a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a medium switch that offers a more substantial feel during typing. In contrast, the WS POM+ is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as a medium-light switch. This difference in force is significant for users who prioritize comfort and endurance during longer typing or gaming sessions; the lighter WS POM+ may be preferable for extended use, while the heavier New North Pole V2 can provide a more pronounced tactile experience for those who favor a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches fall within the medium range, the WS POM+ stands out as the lighter option, offering a more gentle typing experience, whereas the New North Pole V2 appeals to those who enjoy a firmer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the differences are notable. The New North Pole V2 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for deeper keystrokes, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who favor faster response times commonly desired in gaming situations. As a result, if you prefer more responsiveness in your typing experience, the WS POM+ would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you enjoy a firmer keypress with hearty depth, the New North Pole V2 would suit your tastes better. In summary, the New North Pole V2 is the longer switch at 4 mm, while the WS POM+ is the shorter option at 3.6 mm.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 switch provides a typing experience that is notably distinct from many conventional options, owing to the absence of a rubber dampener. This design choice results in a crisper sound profile, enhancing the auditory feedback during keystrokes. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is characterized by its deep and satisfying "thock" sound, which many users find pleasing and indicative of a high-quality typing experience. While both switches deliver engaging auditory experiences, the specific sound will also vary based on a user's keyboard build and choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the New North Pole V2 excels with its polished, creamy, and frictionless characteristics. This means that users can anticipate a smooth and refined typing experience, marked by reduced friction and effortless key travel. The use of high-quality materials and possibly some factory lubing contributes to this buttery sensation, making every keystroke a joy. Unfortunately, the specific tactile details of the WS POM+ are unknown, but it is broadly recognized for delivering an exceptional typing experience. Users can expect it to provide a similarly smooth and pleasant feel, although the exact nature of that tactile sensation remains to be explored.
In conclusion, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches offer compelling options for typing enthusiasts, albeit with different auditory characteristics. The New North Pole V2 provides a crisper sound and an incredibly smooth feel, highlighted by its polished and frictionless nature. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ boasts a satisfying "thock" sound signature, hinting at its premium quality. While the specifics of the WS POM+ feel remain elusive, it is positioned as a strong contender in the realm of linear switches. Overall, your choice may boil down to personal preference regarding sound and the overall typing experience, as both switches promise a level of satisfaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and desired tactile experience. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force that offers a solid feel while typing, the New North Pole V2 is an excellent option. Its polished, creamy, and frictionless characteristics make it ideal for those who prefer a smooth and refined experience, perfect for long typing sessions and ensuring minimal finger fatigue. Its absence of a rubber dampener provides a crisper feedback, making it suitable for users who like a more pronounced response from their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter keystroke and enjoy a deeper, more satisfying sound profile, the WS POM+ is your go-to switch. With a medium-light force of 55 grams, it caters to a more effortless typing experience, making it well-suited for those who prioritize smoothness and a rich "thock" sound. Both switches have their unique appeal, so consider your typing habits and the overall feel you want in a mechanical keyboard to make the right choice for your setup.
Mentioned in this article
