Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their unique characteristics. The New North Pole V2 is recognized for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, made even crisper with the removal of the rubber dampener in its design. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out for its softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem construction. Each switch offers a different typing experience, with the New North Pole V2 being categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', and the Xinhai as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy'. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the New North Pole V2 and the Xinhai differ when it comes to their bottom housings. While the New North Pole V2 also features a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Xinhai utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai share similar characteristics in their top housings. This means that users can expect comparable sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles from both switches due to the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. However, where they do differ is in the tactile feel and sound when pressing down and releasing a key. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction allows for unique typing experiences with each switch, depending on the combination of housing materials used.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate top housings to achieve a sharp and clear sound profile, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains consistency in sound characteristics, while the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing introduces a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing, offering users a range of options to suit their preferences in both sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The New North Pole V2 has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a medium resistance level. In comparison, the Xinhai boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a gentler bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The actuation force of the New North Pole V2 requires more pressure to trigger a keystroke compared to the Xinhai, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai's lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be preferred by those seeking a smoother typing experience, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance compared to the New North Pole V2. The shorter travel distance of the Xinhai may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 known for producing a smooth and seamless typing experience with a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is renowned for its clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. Depending on your preference, the sound produced by these switches may vary, with the New North Pole V2 providing a more mellow typing experience compared to the Xinhai's distinctively crisp and percussive sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is described as having a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. This means users can expect smooth key travel, reduced friction, and a sleek finish when typing on these switches. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery feel. Both switches offer a level of smoothness and ease of typing, but the choice between a more polished and frictionless feel versus a bouncy and creamy sensation ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it's evident that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the New North Pole V2 focuses on providing a seamless and smooth typing experience with a mellow sound profile, the Xinhai prioritizes a distinct clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more polished and frictionless typing experience or a bouncy and creamy sensation, both switches can deliver satisfying results for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a polished, creamy, or frictionless typing experience with a crisper sound profile, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy, creamy, or clacky typing experience with a unique PA12 top housing and POM stem for a softer acoustics profile, then the HMX Xinhai linear switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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