Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Durock Piano, both of which are linear switches. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy and creamy typing feel, accompanied by a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Piano switches from Durock stand out for their proprietary material blend that provides a pleasant and gliding push feel, paired with a deep and creamy sound signature. The North Pole V2 is categorized as gummy, creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished, while the Piano switches are described as bassy, frictionless, and silky. Each switch offers its own unique characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's delve deeper into their specifics to help you make an informed decision about which switch is best suited to your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Durock Piano switches exhibit some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing in their variations. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Durock Piano showcases a proprietary POM blend for its top housing, which offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While the specific details of this blend are unknown, it is clear that the POM blend contributes to a distinct auditory experience different from the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gateron North Pole V2 employs polycarbonate, similar to its top housing. This consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the switch creates a cohesive sound profile and aesthetic. The stiffness of polycarbonate ensures a clear and resonant sound when the switch is pressed down, making bottom-out sound and feel impactful. Conversely, the Durock Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend for its bottom housing. Although the exact composition remains undisclosed, this POM blend brings about its own unique characteristics, offering a potentially different sensation and auditory experience compared to the North Pole V2.
It's important to note that when the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that any differences between the polycarbonate and POM blend housings in the North Pole V2 and Piano switches will manifest in varying aspects of the typing experience, providing users with options to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch can be compared and contrasted in terms of weight. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, which means it requires a relatively light force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Piano switch is unavailable, so it is unclear how much force is required to activate it. However, both switches have a bottom out force of medium-heavy, with the North Pole V2 requiring 65 grams and the Piano requiring 63.5 grams to fully press down.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the North Pole V2 as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards switches with heavier forces. Unfortunately, since the actuation force of the Piano switch is unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison with the North Pole V2 in terms of push feel. However, both switches provide a medium-heavy bottom out force, so users can expect a similar typing experience in that regard.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same 4 mm travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the results you will get from both switches will be similar. Both switches provide a comfortable and consistent key press experience with the same 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best known for its gummy sound profile and chewy typing feel. When typing on these switches, you can expect a deep and muted sound that is not completely silent, but offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The typing feel is described as gummy, giving a unique experience similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation. It is also mentioned that the switch may have a bouncy feedback, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Overall, the North Pole V2 switch offers a delightful and satisfying sound and feel experience.
On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is best known for its gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. When using these switches, you can expect a typing experience with a smooth and effortless feel. The switch is described as frictionless, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This provides a fluid and seamless travel while typing. Additionally, the sound profile of the Piano switch is characterized as bassy, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. It resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. With the Piano switch, you can expect a typing experience that is pleasant and smooth.
In summary, the Gateron North Pole V2 and Durock Piano linear switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The North Pole V2 offers a gummy sound profile, deep and muted, with a satisfying chewy typing feel. In comparison, the Piano switch provides a gliding push feel, a deep and creamy sound signature, and a frictionless typing experience. Both switches offer pleasant typing experiences, but with distinct characteristics. Depending on personal preferences, some may prefer the gummy and chewy feel of the North Pole V2, while others may prefer the smooth and frictionless feel of the Piano. It's important to consider the other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, as they can also affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, both switches can provide similar results in terms of delivering a satisfying typing experience, although with slightly different qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a deep, muted sound profile and a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a gummy typing experience, similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, they provide a medium-heavy feel. The North Pole V2 switches are best known for their subdued sound, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano linear switch may be the better option for you. These switches are one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on, thanks to their proprietary material blend. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, they also provide a medium-heavy feel. The Piano switches are known for their bassy sound, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Durock Piano linear switch depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the North Pole V2 providing a gummy feel and a subdued sound, while the Piano offers a gliding feel and a bassy sound. Consider what type of typing experience you prefer and choose accordingly.
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