Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, one immediate difference stands out - their sound profiles. The North Pole V2 is renowned for its "gummy" and muted sound, providing a satisfyingly chewy typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Ocean remains silent, making it a great option for those seeking a quieter typing experience. Both switches are linear, offering smooth keystrokes without the tactile bump of other switch types. Choosing between the two may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, both the North Pole V2 and the Silent Ocean feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate material in their top housings. This translucency not only adds a visually appealing element to the switches but also enhances the RGB lighting effects when used. However, the difference in housing materials between the two switches - polycarbonate for the North Pole V2 and nylon for the Silent Ocean's bottom housing - means that each switch will offer a unique sound and feel when typing. While the North Pole V2 may provide a crisper and sharper typing experience, the Silent Ocean offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the properties of nylon.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by incorporating unique sound profiles and tactile feedback. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings in each switch allows for a balance of sharpness and depth in sound, offering users a variety of options based on their preferences. Whether you prefer a stiffer and clearer sound profile with the North Pole V2 or a softer and fuller sound with the Silent Ocean, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is clear that the North Pole V2 is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 45 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Ocean switch due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a slightly heavier keypress may opt for the North Pole V2. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the main difference lying in the initial actuation force required to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4mm of travel distance. In terms of comparing and contrasting their travel distance, there is no notable difference between the two switches as they both offer the same amount of key travel. Therefore, whether you opt for the North Pole V2 or the Silent Ocean switch, you can expect to receive similar results in terms of key travel experience.
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 Ocean 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 sound profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed. It provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches, creating a deep and muted typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is currently not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy typing feel. Typing on these switches creates a unique and delightful experience akin to bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, offering a satisfying chewy sensation with each keystroke. The Silent Ocean linear switch, on the other hand, lacks available information regarding its typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch stands out for its subdued sound profile and gummy typing feel, providing a deep and muted sound along with a satisfying chewy sensation while typing. If you are seeking a switch with these specific qualities, the North Pole V2 would be a solid choice. While information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is currently unavailable, based on the available data, you may expect to achieve similar results with the North Pole V2 in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a gummy and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a silent switch without a specific feel preference, the Silent Ocean might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
Mentioned in this article
