Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is clear that they each offer unique qualities. The North Pole V2 is renowned for its gummy and creamy typing experience, providing a subdued yet bouncy feel with a polished sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but offers a more straightforward typing experience. If you prioritize a distinct tactile and auditory experience, the North Pole V2 may be the better choice. 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Green, both switches feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This means that they share similar qualities in terms of sound profile, stiffness, and translucency. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's relatively stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically speaking, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting.
While the North Pole V2 and the Silent Green share the same housing material, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience may vary due to the design of the switches. The qualities of the polycarbonate bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. This distinction in how each housing material interacts with key presses can lead to subtle differences in typing feel and sound, even though both switches use polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings.
In conclusion, the similarities in housing materials between the North Pole V2 and the Silent Green, specifically polycarbonate top and bottom housings, create a foundation for comparable sound profiles and aesthetics. However, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience may vary due to design differences that determine how each housing material affects key presses. Ultimately, both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate housings, such as sharp, crisp sound profiles and compatibility with RGB lighting, but the individual typing feel and sound characteristics may differ between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Green is the lighter option. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required. In contrast, the Silent Green has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the North Pole V2 providing a slightly heavier feel compared to the gentle touch of the Silent Green. Depending on personal preference, some users may appreciate the lighter actuation force of the Silent Green for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the North Pole V2 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired level of force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance, resulting in a similar experience when typing with either one. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, as they provide the same amount of key travel for users to feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, whether you choose the North Pole V2 or the Silent Green switch, you can expect to have a consistent typing experience in terms of key 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 Silent Green 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 Silent Green linear switch, we can see that the North Pole V2 offers a more subdued and gummy sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound and feel of the Silent Green switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, it is likely that the North Pole V2 would provide a deeper and more muted sound along with a chewy typing feel, while the Silent Green may offer different qualities that are yet to be described. Ultimately, both switches may offer a unique typing experience, depending on personal preference and the specific setup of the keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch or the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a gummy, creamy, bouncy, or polished typing experience with a subdued sound profile, then the North Pole V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and value a silent typing experience, the Silent Green switch may be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences and priorities when making your decision between these two different linear switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels best for you.
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