Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with a decision between a linear switch and a tactile switch respectively. The North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy feel, providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown offers a tactile typing experience, giving feedback with each key press without the distracting noise. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The North Pole V2 is ideal for those who enjoy a smooth and cushioned typing experience, while the Crystal Brown is suited for those who prefer a tactile response during typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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 Crystal Brown share similar characteristics in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches are designed to provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate material. Additionally, their translucency makes them ideal for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the North Pole V2 and the Crystal Brown differ in their bottom housing materials, with the North Pole V2 featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing and the Crystal Brown featuring a nylon bottom housing. This results in a variation in sound profiles, with the North Pole V2 producing a clearer and resonant sound, while the Crystal Brown offers a deeper and fuller sound profile.
The choice of housing materials for the North Pole V2 and the Crystal Brown impacts the overall typing experience. The North Pole V2's polycarbonate top and bottom housings work in harmony to create a more defined sound when pressing down on a key, as well as a clear and resonant sound when releasing the key. In contrast, the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provide a different typing experience, with the bottom housing absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound during bottom-out. This demonstrates how the combination of housing materials can influence the tactile feedback and acoustics of a switch.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. While the North Pole V2 focuses on providing a sharper and crisper sound profile through its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the Crystal Brown prioritizes a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing feel. Regardless of the choice made, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches due to their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The North Pole V2 has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams, while the Crystal Brown only needs 55 grams, making it lighter when pressing all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Crystal Brown, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial push feel, ideal for users seeking a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they both offer a similar key press experience. The 4 mm travel distance is standard for both switches, ensuring consistent feedback and comfort for users. While both switches offer the same travel distance, they differ in their key feel - the North Pole V2 being a linear switch and the Crystal Brown being a tactile switch. Linear switches provide a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, while tactile switches have a slight bump in the keystroke to provide a more pronounced tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in key feel 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 Crystal Brown 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 provides a unique typing experience with a gummy feel and a subdued sound profile. The key press is described as chewy and satisfying, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch in terms of sound and feel is unknown. However, if we were to compare the subjective qualities of the two switches based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Crystal Brown may offer a different tactile feel and sound compared to the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities, and while the North Pole V2 is known for its gummy feel and subdued sound, the Crystal Brown may offer a different tactile typing experience for those looking for something distinct.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gummy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a different tactile feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and the sound profile you prefer. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider these factors when making your decision. Happy typing!
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