Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their unique qualities. The North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy and creamy typing experience, offering a subdued and bouncy feel with a polished sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. Both switches have their own appeal and advantages, catering 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cold Plum, we see that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing and bottom housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. While the North Pole V2 offers a more clear and resonant sound due to polycarbonate's stiffness, the Cold Plum provides a softer typing experience with nylon's sound-absorbing properties.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the North Pole V2 and Cold Plum switches play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contribute to a clear and sharp sound profile, while the nylon top and bottom housing of the Cold Plum result in a deeper and fuller sound. Interestingly, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, whereas nylon's softer nature provides a more subdued typing experience. These differences in housing materials highlight how each switch offers a unique sound and feel based on the properties of their respective materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the North Pole V2 and Cold Plum switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience. If you prefer a crisper and sharper sound profile, the North Pole V2 with its polycarbonate housing may be more suited to your taste. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder tone, the Outemu Cold Plum's nylon housing could be the better option for you. Both switches offer distinct qualities based on their housing materials, providing users with a variety of experiences to choose from.
Weight
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the North Pole V2 requiring 65 grams and the Cold Plum needing 70 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the North Pole V2, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch. The North Pole V2 offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper press compared to the Cold Plum. gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Cold Plum switch. In contrast, those who enjoy a more robust key feel may prefer the longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Cold Plum 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, when comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we can see that they offer distinct sound profiles and typing feels. The North Pole V2 provides a subdued sound with a gummy typing feel, giving a satisfying and unique experience to the user. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke, providing enthusiasts with a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. While the sound and feel qualities differ between the two switches, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for you. Whether you prefer the deep and muted sound of the North Pole V2 or the thocky sound of the Cold Plum, both switches offer a premium typing experience that enthusiasts will appreciate. Ultimately, it is recommended to test out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when making the decision between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you are looking for a unique and satisfying typing experience with a deep sound profile, the North Pole V2 may be the way to go with its gummy feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound and smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum might be the better choice with its nylon construction. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that can enhance your overall keyboard usage.
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