Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Quinn are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The North Pole V2, a linear switch, is best known for its "gummy" typing feel and deep, muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Quinn, a tactile switch, offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. Each keystroke on the Quinn is met with a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. Both switches have their advantages, and choosing the best one for you may depend on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best-informed decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Quinn switches have different materials used in their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. It also allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Quinn has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Similarly, when it comes to the bottom housings, the North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound profile. The aesthetic advantage of having a clear housing applies here as well. On the other hand, the Quinn has a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel while typing on the switch.
Although the materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Quinn differ, their purpose and impact remain the same. Both polycarbonate and nylon have unique characteristics that influence the sound produced by the switch. The choice between them comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Whether it is the sharper and crisper sound of the North Pole V2's polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of the Quinn's nylon, both switches offer distinct qualities to enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, both switches fall under the medium-heavy category. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the North Pole V2 would be the better option as it has a slightly lower actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Quinn. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Quinn would be the better choice. Its slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, resulting in a more satisfying keystroke.
Overall, while the North Pole V2 is lighter and the Quinn is heavier, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range. Depending on personal preference and typing style, individuals can choose between the two switches to achieve similar results.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Quinn. In terms of preference, the traditional travel distance of 4 mm may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Quinn's shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm may be preferred by gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness. Regardless, both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, whether it be the hearty depth of the North Pole V2 or the quick and precise action of the Quinn.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a deep and muted sound profile. Typing on these switches produces a subdued sound that is not completely silent, but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users are greeted with a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. The Quinn switch can be characterized as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant, resulting in a clean and sharp sound profile. If you are looking for a subdued and muted sound, the North Pole V2 would be your choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a touch of character, the Quinn switches would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as gummy. Typing on these switches offers a unique experience, similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The switches have a chewy and satisfying typing feel. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switches can also provide a creamy and bouncy sensation, with a spring-like or elastic feedback that adds liveliness to each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a snappy and polished feel. These switches are super responsive and provide a smooth and refined typing experience. The Quinn switches also offer a bouncy sensation with rebound when pressed. Additionally, they can be described as accented and buttery, providing a prominent amount of tactility and a seamless typing sensation. If you prefer a gummy and bouncy typing feel, the North Pole V2 would be the choice for you. However, if you prefer a snappy and polished feel with a touch of tactility, the Quinn switches would be more suitable.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The North Pole V2 provides a deep, muted sound profile, while the Quinn offers a rich and immersive sound with characteristics such as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant. In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 provides a gummy, creamy, and bouncy typing experience, while the Quinn offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, and buttery feel. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between the two switches to achieve the desired sound and feel for your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer one particular quality over the other, you can expect similar results by selecting the respective switch that emphasizes that quality.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and satisfying linear experience, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch with its gummy feel and deep, muted sound may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound, the Gateron Quinn switch with its bassy and clacky sound characteristics may be more appealing. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
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