Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it's clear that both offer unique typing experiences. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy typing feel, featuring a deep and muted sound profile that is both satisfying and smooth. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue switch does not have a specific standout feature but is still a reliable clicky switch option. If you're looking for a switch with a gummy, creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished typing experience, the North Pole V2 may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional clicky switch without any standout characteristics, the Milk Blue could be the switch 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
N/A
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
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 Outemu Milk Blue switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that provides a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in clear housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switches have a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2.
While both the Gateron North Pole V2 and Outemu Milk Blue switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, they differ when it comes to the bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, particularly influencing the bottom-out sound. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue switches affects the typing experience by creating a deeper sound profile and offering a softer typing feel. This difference in housing materials showcases how the bottom housing can play a significant role in the overall typing experience of a switch.
In summary, the choice of housing material in a switch impacts the sound profile, feel, and aesthetic appeal. The Gateron North Pole V2 and Outemu Milk Blue switches demonstrate how the use of polycarbonate and nylon in different housing parts can result in unique typing experiences. While both switches share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials highlights how each component can affect the overall sound and feel of a switch. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and design aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the North Pole V2 is considered medium-heavy due to its heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue's weight is uncertain, making it difficult to determine if it is lighter or heavier. Actuation force is significant as it determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the switch all the way down. Ultimately, the North Pole V2 may be preferred by those who enjoy a heavier typing experience, while the Milk Blue's weight remains a mystery.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is clear that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users can expect a consistent keypress experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether typing on the Gateron North Pole V2 or the Outemu Milk Blue, the travel distance will remain the same, resulting in similar tactile feedback and overall typing feel. Users can enjoy a smooth and precise keypress with either switch, making them both reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Milk 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
Overall, when comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we can see that the North Pole V2 offers a unique and satisfying typing experience with its gummy feel and subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Milk Blue lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, making it harder to assess its subjective qualities. If you enjoy a more dampened and gummy typing experience, the North Pole V2 would be a great choice. However, for those looking for a more clicky and tactile typing feel, further research or testing may be necessary to determine if the Milk Blue switch meets their preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide different characteristics, and the choice between them will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a gummy, creamy, bouncy, or polished typing experience, the North Pole V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a unique sound profile and feel, the Milk Blue could be a great option. Consider how you like your switches to sound and feel when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours depending on what fits your typing preferences best.
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