Gateron North Pole V2 vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a wide variety of options available. Two popular choices are the Gateron North Pole V2, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch. The North Pole V2 is best known for its delightful gummy feel when typing, accompanied by a deep and muted sound profile. It falls under categories such as 'Gummy', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to a big tactile bump. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy. It is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches offer unique qualities and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple feature a polycarbonate top housing. This choice in material provides several benefits, including a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, it creates a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create a visually appealing effect. Therefore, both switches offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic possibilities with their polycarbonate top housing.
Similarly, both switches also incorporate a polycarbonate bottom housing. This choice in material contributes to the same benefits as the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clear and resonant sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucent quality of the material aligns with the aesthetic considerations mentioned earlier. Thus, both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple share the same characteristics and advantages when it comes to their polycarbonate bottom housing.
Since the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles, any differences in housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple maintain consistency in their choice of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. As a result, the user will experience similar sound profiles and tactile feedback when pressing down on both switches. However, when releasing a key, the impact of the top housing will come into play, potentially differentiating the sound produced between the two switches. Nonetheless, the overall qualities of the polycarbonate housings will remain present in both switches, offering a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that they have similar characteristics in terms of weight. The North Pole V2 requires a force of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel.
Considering weight, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use may find the North Pole V2 to be a suitable choice. This switch allows for comfortable typing during work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial and forceful typing experience may opt for the Polaris Purple, as its bottom out force matches that of the North Pole V2.
While the actuation force of the Polaris Purple remains unknown, individuals in search of a switch with a heavier push feel can still achieve similar results with the North Pole V2. Despite their differences in actuation force, both switches share a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a satisfactory typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback at this distance, allowing for comfortable and precise typing or gaming experiences. Whether you choose the Gateron North Pole V2 or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, you can expect similar results in terms of 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 and creamy typing feel. When typing on these switches, users can expect a deep and muted sound profile, providing a more subtle and dampened typing experience. The bottoming-out sensation is similar to bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, resulting in a unique and satisfying chewy feel.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is well-known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience. The switch features a big tactile bump that offers a pronounced feedback sensation when pressed. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy, adding to the overall typing experience.
In summary, the North Pole V2 linear switch provides a soft and gummy feel with a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a more pronounced tactile bump with a snappier sound profile. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the switches have distinct characteristics, if you prefer a similar typing experience, you can expect comparable results in terms of sound and feel with these options.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gummy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 is an excellent choice. It offers a deep and muted sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is the way to go. Its big tactile bump delivers an exhilarating typing experience and a snappy sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities, with the North Pole V2 being described as "subdued" in terms of sound and "gummy," "creamy," and "bouncy" in terms of feel. The Polaris Purple, on the other hand, is described as "neutral" in sound and "mild" and "polished" in terms of feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
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