Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Bsun Olive. The North Pole V2 is a linear switch that is often described as gummy, creamy, and subdued, providing a bouncy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive is a tactile switch known for its resonant, deep sound and pronounced tactile feedback, offering an invigorating and sharp typing feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron North Pole V2 and the Bsun Olive differ in their housing materials, with the North Pole V2 featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing while the Bsun Olive has a POM top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, POM housings produce a deeper and relatively more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience for users. While both materials offer different sound profiles, they each contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switch in their own distinct ways.
One similarity between the North Pole V2 and the Bsun Olive is that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This means that both switches will exhibit similar characteristics in terms of sound, with a sharper and crisper profile that is particularly ideal for users looking to take advantage of RGB lighting. On the other hand, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the North Pole V2 using polycarbonate while the Bsun Olive opts for POM. This contrast in materials results in a variation in sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing material playing a more significant role in the overall experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Bsun Olive ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Those who enjoy a sharper and more resonant sound may prefer the North Pole V2 with its polycarbonate housing, while individuals looking for a deeper and more muted sound may lean towards the Bsun Olive with its POM housing. Regardless of the housing material used, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is influenced by the qualities of their top and bottom housings.
Weight
The Gateron North Pole V2 and Bsun Olive switches both have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equal in terms of how much force is needed to fully press the key. However, the North Pole V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Olive's 45 grams. This means that the North Pole V2 requires a bit more force to initiate a keystroke than the Olive does. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Bsun Olive may be the better option, as it allows for easier typing over extended periods. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 may be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The North Pole V2 provides a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Olive switch may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron 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 North Pole V2 for $5.70.
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 North Pole V2 linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle noise when pressed. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive tactile switch delivers a resonant, deep sound due to its all-POM housings. The Olive switch offers a unique auditory experience that stands out, while the North Pole V2 gives a more muted typing sound.
In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 linear switch provides a gummy and creamy typing experience, likened to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. On the contrary, the BSUN Olive tactile switch offers an accented and sharp tactile feedback with a snappy and invigorating feel. The Olive switch presents a tactile sensation that is pronounced and distinct, while the North Pole V2 offers a smooth and buttery typing experience.
Taking all available information into account, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the BSUN Olive tactile switch provide contrasting subjective qualities. The North Pole V2 excels in providing a gummy typing feel with subdued sound, while the Olive switch stands out with its accented tactile feedback and resonant sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get a satisfying typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it's important to consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and gummy typing feel with a muted sound profile, the North Pole V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a pronounced feedback and a deep resonant sound, the Bsun Olive switch with its unique design and long pole stem may be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience that you find most satisfying.
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