Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2, a linear switch, to the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, a clear distinction can be made in terms of their sound profiles and typing feel. The North Pole V2 is often described as "gummy" due to its deep and muted sound profile, providing a satisfyingly chewy typing feel. On the other hand, the Cream Blue lacks a specific descriptor but falls under the clicky switch category. Those who prefer a more subdued and bouncy typing experience may find the North Pole V2 appealing, while fans of audible feedback may lean towards the Cream Blue. 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
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue, a key difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cream Blue features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as a result of its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This variation in top housing material leads to distinct sound characteristics between the two switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the North Pole V2 and the Cream Blue differ in their materials once again. The North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, crisper sound upon bottom-out due to its stiffness, while the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound as a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material influences the overall sound profile of each switch, with the North Pole V2 emphasizing clarity and resonance and the Cream Blue focusing on a rounder, duller sound.
Interestingly, if a switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities associated with each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that when typing on such a switch, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a more significant influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the amount of force required to press the keys. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the category of being neither too light nor too heavy, striking a balance between fatigue-free typing and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference for the type of typing experience desired.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feedback and overall typing experience. The 4 mm travel distance is relatively standard for mechanical switches, providing a good balance between keypress activation and bottoming out. As a result, whether you choose the North Pole V2 or the Cream Blue, you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of 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 Cream 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound profile when pressed, creating a more subtle typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as gummy, offering a unique and chewy typing experience reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The Cream Blue clicky switch lacks a specific feel descriptor, making it challenging to compare directly with the North Pole V2 in this regard. It's important to note that the typing feel can greatly impact the overall typing experience, so it's essential to consider this aspect when choosing a switch.
Considering the available information, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch stands out for its gummy typing feel and subdued sound profile, providing a satisfying and unique typing experience for users who prefer linear switches. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch remain unknown in terms of sound and feel, it's possible to achieve similar results in these aspects by experimenting with different keycap and keyboard combinations. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a deep and muted sound profile and a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels best for you during your typing sessions.
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