Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Blue Jade

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron North Pole V2 and Outemu Blue Jade offer distinct typing experiences. The North Pole V2 is a linear switch known for its 'gummy' feel, providing a deep and muted sound profile that feels satisfyingly chewy while typing. On the other hand, the Blue Jade is a clicky switch that delivers a different tactile feedback with each keypress. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you prefer. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

Outemu Blue Jade Clicky

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Blue Jade, we can see that they both prioritize sound profiles in different ways. The polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, perfect for those who enjoy a more crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade produces a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who prefer a more rounded typing feel. Despite these differences, both materials offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences.

Moving on to the bottom housing, we see a similar trend in the differences between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Blue Jade. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 continues to deliver a sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the top housing material. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Jade provides a deeper and fuller sound, adding to the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials serves to enhance the tactile feedback and sound dynamics of each switch, allowing for a more nuanced typing experience.

Overall, both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles. While the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing for a sharper sound, the Blue Jade utilizes nylon for a deeper tone. Each material has its advantages, with polycarbonate providing clarity and resonance, and nylon offering sound absorption and a duller sound. Whether you prefer a crisper typing experience or a fuller sound profile, both switches deliver excellent results based on their housing materials.

Weight

Comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches. This means that users will experience a consistent amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke and when pressing all the way down on the switch. In terms of weight, both switches offer a balance between being light enough for extended typing sessions and heavy enough to provide a substantial typing experience. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch will depend on personal preference and typing style. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force when using either the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch or the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is the same, with both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance traveled from top to bottom. This makes them equally suitable for users who prefer a specific travel distance in their switches. So, whether you choose the Gateron North Pole V2 or the Outemu Blue Jade, you can expect to get a consistent and familiar typing experience in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

Overall, when comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the North Pole V2 offers a more unique and satisfying typing experience. The North Pole V2 provides a deep and muted sound profile, described as subdued, which can be pleasing to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 offers a gummy and creamy typing sensation, akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or smoothly gliding across the keys. On the other hand, the Blue Jade's sound and feel qualities are unknown, indicating a lack of distinctive characteristics compared to the North Pole V2. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a distinctive sound and feel, the North Pole V2 is the superior choice. However, if you prefer a more standard typing experience, you may get similar results with the Blue Jade switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and gummy typing feel with a subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a distinct tactile feedback and audible click sound, the Blue Jade could be more suitable. Ultimately, your personal preference for typing feel and sound will dictate which switch is the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Blue Jade Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more