Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, we find distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The North Pole V2 is renowned for its gummy feel, providing a deep and muted sound profile that enhances the typing experience with a satisfying chewy sensation. On the other hand, the Cream Pink remains relatively unknown in terms of standout features. If you prefer a switch with a gummy, creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished feel, the North Pole V2 may be the ideal choice for you. 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
2.00 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
Both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink switches feature unique housing materials that influence their sound profiles. The North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Cream Pink switch incorporates a nylon top housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound. While the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 is stiffer and contributes to a clear and resonant sound, the Cream Pink's softer nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink switches also differ in material and sound characteristics. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements its top housing in creating a sharp and clear sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream Pink switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the stiffer polycarbonate material of the North Pole V2.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink switches differ in composition and sound characteristics, they each contribute to the overall typing experience in their own unique ways. While the polycarbonate materials in the North Pole V2 create a sharper and more resonant sound profile, the nylon materials in the Cream Pink switch offer a deeper and fuller tone. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound profile can help users choose the switch that best aligns with their preferences for keyboard typing sound and feel. Whether opting for the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch reveals that they both have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them medium-heavy switches. In terms of weight, both switches offer a balance between a light touch for extended typing or gaming sessions and a satisfying resistance for a more substantial typing experience. This similarity means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance when using either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the specific feel of each switch, rather than their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth linear typing experience with no tactile bump or audible click. So, while the North Pole V2 and Cream Pink may have different characteristics in terms of actuation force or durability, in terms of travel distance, they are equal.
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 Pink 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 Cream Pink linear switch, we can see that the North Pole V2 offers a subdued and muted sound profile along with a gummy typing feel. On the other hand, information about the Cream Pink switch is not available. If we were to make an assumption based on the lack of information, we might expect that the Cream Pink could potentially offer a different sound profile and typing feel compared to the North Pole V2. Ultimately, both switches may provide a unique typing experience, but without specific details on the Cream Pink, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. To achieve similar results, a newcomer could try both switches to see which one aligns best with their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, your choice should primarily be based on the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a gummy feel with a deep and muted sound profile, the North Pole V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience without any specific noted sound characteristics, the Cream Pink could be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style and desired feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the North Pole V2 and Cream Pink switches comes down to personal preference in feel and sound.