Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it's evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy texture and subdued sound profile, providing a creamy and bouncy typing feel that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch lacks a specific defining characteristic but is known for its clicky feedback. While the North Pole V2 may be preferred for its unique sound and feel, the Outemu Blue switch could be chosen for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Outemu Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share similar characteristics with their polycarbonate top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Blue sets it apart from the Gateron North Pole V2. This split between housing materials allows each switch to have a unique sound profile based on the qualities provided by the top and bottom housings. When typing on the Outemu Blue, the nylon bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate top and bottom housings both contribute to its sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 and Outemu Blue switches showcase the impact of different housing materials on sound profiles. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound, the Outemu Blue's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the North Pole V2. Understanding the qualities of each housing material can help keyboard enthusiasts choose a switch that best suits their preference for sound and feel. Whether looking for a sharper sound with polycarbonate or a fuller sound with nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, we can see that both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams. However, the North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Blue switch is unknown. This makes the North Pole V2 slightly heavier than the Blue switch in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may be more suitable, as it has a lower bottom out force. However, if you enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 may be the better choice due to its higher bottom out force. In either case, selecting a switch with a force that matches your preferences will result in a more comfortable typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent amount of travel distance. This allows for a similar typing experience in terms of key press depth for both switches. Despite their identical travel distances, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a smooth linear feel without any tactile feedback, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch provides a tactile bump and audible click during actuation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference for typing experience rather than travel distance.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
Overall, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a unique and satisfying typing experience with its gummy feel and subdued sound profile. The switches provide a deep and muted sound when pressed, creating a more subtle sound signature compared to other switches. Additionally, the gummy feel of the North Pole V2 gives a chewy and satisfying typing experience, similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or gummy bear. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks specific information on sound and feel qualities. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a subdued sound profile and a gummy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be an excellent choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a gummy and creamy typing feel, along with a subdued sound profile, then the North Pole V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a different sound and feel, the Outemu Blue switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and enjoy the satisfying typing experience it provides.
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