Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that set them apart. The North Pole V2 is a linear switch that offers a gummy, creamy typing experience with a subdued yet bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade is a tactile switch known for its quiet, thocky sound and punchy tactile bump. If you're looking for a switch with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the North Pole V2 may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a quiet typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade could 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
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
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, it is clear that the North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, while the Silent Yellow Jade features nylon for both components. This means that both switches will deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the North Pole V2 and the softer, more absorbing quality of nylon in the Silent Yellow Jade. However, the North Pole V2 with its polycarbonate housing will likely provide a more clear and resonant sound overall, particularly with the use of RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. In contrast, the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon housing may result in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone.
While both the North Pole V2 and the Silent Yellow Jade share similarities in their housing materials, the differences in their sound profiles can be attributed to the specific qualities of polycarbonate and nylon. The stiffer polycarbonate in the North Pole V2 contributes to a more defined and resonant sound, especially noticeable when key pressing, while the softer nylon used in the Silent Yellow Jade absorbs more sound and leads to a deeper, rounder tone. These contrasting characteristics result in unique typing experiences for users of both switches, with the North Pole V2 providing a sharper sound profile and the Silent Yellow Jade offering a fuller and more absorbent sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
In terms of typing experience, the differences in housing materials between the North Pole V2 and the Silent Yellow Jade will impact the sound and feel of each switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether polycarbonate in the North Pole V2 or nylon in the Silent Yellow Jade, will have a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. Conversely, the top housing material will influence the sound produced when a key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, catering to users who prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with the North Pole V2, or a deeper, fuller sound with the Silent Yellow Jade.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, it is interesting to note that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that in terms of force needed to trigger a keystroke and the force required to bottom out, users can expect similar results from both switches. In terms of weight, both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, providing a balance between lighter switches that allow for prolonged typing sessions and heavier switches that offer a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing feel, both the North Pole V2 and Silent Yellow Jade switches offer a versatile choice for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and usage. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Outemu switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Gateron switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so users should consider their individual preferences when selecting a switch for their keyboard.
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 Yellow Jade 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's not completely silent but provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch is known for its quiet and tactile typing experience, emitting a satisfying "thocky" sound. The sound of these switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is described as having a gummy typing experience. Typing on these switches feels deep and muted, akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided in the information given. However, knowing that these are silent tactile switches, one can expect a punchy tactile bump while typing, offering a unique typing sensation.
Considering all available information, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the North Pole V2 provides a gummy typing feel and a subdued sound profile, the Silent Yellow Jade offers a quiet and tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, both of these switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience. It is ultimately recommended to try out both switches to see which one aligns better with individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and muted linear switch with a gummy typing feel, the North Pole V2 might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound and a punchy tactile bump, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing feel and sound profile you prefer. Choose the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences for a more enjoyable typing experience.
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