Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Kailh Plum 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 Kailh Plum. The North Pole V2 is a linear switch that is best known for its gummy typing feel. When using this switch, you can expect a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that stands out for its unique weightiness without a significant tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. While these general descriptions can provide a starting point for choosing a switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
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 Kailh Plum both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through. The similarities in the top housing of both switches mean that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits when using them.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing while the Kailh Plum utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the Plum switch creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Plum switch. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, delivering a clearer and resonant experience when pressing down on the keys.
In summary, while both switches have polycarbonate top housing that provides a sharper sound profile and is visually appealing for RGB lighting usage, their bottom housings differ. The nylon bottom housing of the Kailh Plum produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Gateron North Pole V2 enhances the bottom-out sound and feel. Depending on the user's preference for sound and typing experience, one switch may be more suitable than the other.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Plum switch is unavailable. Despite this, it can be assumed that the actuation force of the Plum switch would be relatively similar to the North Pole V2, as both switches fall into the medium-heavy category.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams of force to fully press down, while the Plum switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Plum switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience, which could be preferable for those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Considering weight in terms of these switches, the lighter option would be the switch with the lower actuation and bottom out forces, which in this case is the North Pole V2. This lighter weight can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as in a work or gaming setting. On the other hand, the Plum switch, with its heavier bottom out force, would provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. While the specific actuation force for the Plum switch is unknown, it can be assumed to be similar to the North Pole V2. The North Pole V2 is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for longer typing sessions, while the Plum switch provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience for those who prefer it.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Plum's 3.6 mm travel distance is more shallow, which is gaining popularity among gamers due to its faster response time. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Plum switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the North Pole V2 switch would be the better option. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
The North Pole V2 linear switch is best known for its gummy and chewy typing feel. When pressing these switches, you will experience a deep and muted sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a unique feel, being quite hefty but without a huge tactile bump. This makes it stand out from other tactile switches that often prioritize tactility and weightiness. The Plum switch offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile.
In terms of sound, the North Pole V2 switch produces a subdued sound when pressed. It is not completely silent, but it offers a more subtle and dampened sound signature compared to most switches. In contrast, the Plum switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it falls within a moderate range of actuation force requirement and sound level. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether it's for home or work use. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the North Pole V2 switch provides a gummy typing experience. Bottoming out on these switches feels similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the creamy characteristics of the switch offer a smooth and buttery typing sensation. This could be due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch construction. The bouncy nature of the North Pole V2 switch also gives it a spring-like feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a more mild typing experience, with a gentler sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It may have some pre-travel or post-travel, providing a stepped feel rather than a large bump throughout the keystroke.
Overall, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in sound and feel. The North Pole V2 is gummy, providing a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing experience. In contrast, the Plum switch is neutral and offers a unique tactile feel without a significant tactile bump. While they differ in these qualities, both switches have their own enjoyable sound and typing characteristics. If you are looking for a similar typing experience, the North Pole V2 can deliver a similar result to the Plum switch due to its gummy and muted nature, creating a satisfying typing experience overall.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making a choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a gummy and chewy typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile, the North Pole V2 would be a great choice for you. The North Pole V2 also has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, which provides a satisfying typing feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a unique tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, the Kailh Plum would be a better fit. The Plum offers a moderate sound profile and a weighty feel without featuring a huge tactile bump, making it suitable for various typing purposes. Furthermore, if you appreciate a mild typing experience with a safe middle-ground feel, the Plum's mild descriptor provides just that.
In terms of sound, the North Pole V2 offers a subdued sound, which provides a dampened and more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The Plum, on the other hand, has a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings.
Overall, the North Pole V2 excels in providing a gummy and chewy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, while the Plum stands out with its unique tactile feel and moderate sound profile. Consider these factors along with your personal preferences to make an informed decision on which switch suits you best.
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