Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Red, both of which are linear switches. The New North Pole V2 is known for its crisp typing experience thanks to the removal of a rubber dampener, while still maintaining the frictionless typing feel that the North Pole lineup is known for. On the other hand, the WS Red stands out with its 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the WS Red offers a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke and delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their housing materials, with the former using polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, while the latter utilizes nylon for both. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material creates a clear and resonant sound when typing on the switches, making it suitable for those who prefer a more distinct sound. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This makes the WS Red switches ideal for individuals who prefer a mellower and rounded sound while typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the New North Pole V2 switch offers translucency, which allows for the use of RGB lighting to enhance the overall visual experience. This is especially useful for those who want to add a colorful and vibrant touch to their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the WS Red switches do not feature a translucent housing, which may be a drawback for users who prioritize the visual appeal of their keyboard.
When it comes to the impact on the sound and feel of the switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role. In the case of the New North Pole V2, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sharp and resonant sound when bottoming out a key. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Red switch results in a deep and full sound when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, influences the sound when releasing a key, adding an additional factor to consider when choosing between these switches.
Overall, while both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the New North Pole V2 featuring a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate housing and the WS Red producing a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. The New North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing offers the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting enthusiasts, while the WS Red does not have this feature. However, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials, catering to different sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the WS Red. The New North Pole V2 requires a force of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the WS Red's actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the New North Pole V2 has a force of 62.5 grams, which is slightly lighter than the WS Red's 67 gram bottom out force.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer lighter switches may find the Gateron New North Pole V2 more suitable for their needs. This lighter actuation and bottom out force allows for longer typing sessions without excessive finger fatigue. It also makes it ideal for bringing to work or for extended gaming sessions where comfort and endurance are important.
On the other hand, if one prefers a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the WS Red with its medium-heavy bottom out force may be the better choice. While the actuation force for the WS Red is unknown, the heavier bottom out force can provide a satisfying tactile feedback, giving typists a sense of assurance with every keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron New North Pole V2 offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Wuque Studio WS Red. The New North Pole V2 is a suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of comfortable use. Meanwhile, the WS Red offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel that some users may find more satisfying.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the New North Pole V2 offers a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range, with the WS Red being slightly shallower. However, the difference is not significant and individuals may not notice a substantial variation in their experience. With that said, gamers who prioritize faster response times may opt for the WS Red with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke may lean towards the New North Pole V2 with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to 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 Wuque Studio WS Red 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 New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its sound signature, which is not specified in the given information. Similarly, the sound profile of the WS Red linear switch is also not described. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, so the overall sound experience may vary.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 linear switch is described as having a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. This means that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and effortless typing experience. The absence of a rubber dampener adds crispness to the keystrokes, while still maintaining the characteristic frictionless feel that the North Pole lineup is known for.
On the other hand, the WS Red linear switch is not described in terms of feel in the given information. Since it boasts a 22mm double-stage spring, it offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience. Furthermore, it is mentioned that these switches retain a familiar sound signature due to a classic material blend. The switch also requires a heavier actuation force, adding a sense of weight to each keystroke, resulting in a satisfying and substantial typing feel.
Considering the available information, it is clear that both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. However, specific details regarding their sound profiles, as well as a comprehensive description of the feel of the WS Red switch, are unknown. Nevertheless, based on the descriptions provided, it is evident that the New North Pole V2 switch excels in delivering a smooth and seamless typing experience, while the WS Red switch emphasizes a bouncy and responsive feel with a heavier actuation force. Depending on individual preference, users can expect similar qualities of smoothness and responsiveness, but with slight variations in sound and weight between the two switches. It's important to consider these characteristics, along with personal typing style and preferences, when choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and typing style. If you value a crisper typing experience without the use of a rubber dampener, while still enjoying a frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a touch of weight in each keystroke, along with a familiar sound signature, then the Wuque Studio WS Red is worth considering. In terms of sound, the exact descriptions are not provided for these switches, so it would be best to try them out or listen to sound tests to determine the one that suits your preferences. As for feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 offers a range of descriptors such as polished, creamy, and frictionless, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of Wuque Studio WS Red is not provided. To make the best decision, it would be wise to try out samples or refer to typing reviews from others who have experienced the switches firsthand. Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, so it's about finding the one that fits your specific needs and preferences.
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