Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy and creamy typing experience, providing a subdued and bouncy feel with a polished sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice stands out for its bright and clacky characteristics, offering vibrant feedback and effortless actuation for users seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience. While the North Pole V2 excels in providing a satisfying and chewy typing feel, the Salt Ice shines with its light touch and standout bright qualities. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
While both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, they differ slightly in their overall sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the two switches may have subtle differences in sound when typing due to other factors such as the stem shape and spring weight.
Despite their similarities in housing material, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice may offer slightly different typing experiences. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary between the two switches, affecting the overall typing experience for users. The top housing, which influences the sound when releasing a key, may also contribute to any differences in sound profile between the North Pole V2 and the Salt Ice.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate housing, including a clear and resonant sound profile. Whether you prefer a slightly sharper sound profile or a crisper feel when typing, both switches can provide similar results due to their shared housing material. Ultimately, individual typing preferences and aesthetic considerations may guide your decision between these two switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer a clear distinction in terms of weight. The North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams, making the North Pole V2 more resistant to accidental key presses. In terms of bottom out force, the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams to bottom out, while the Salt Ice's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the North Pole V2 a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Salt Ice offers a lighter typing experience suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches provide unique benefits based on individual preferences, with the North Pole V2 leaning towards heavier forces and the Salt Ice towards lighter forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Salt Ice's 3.4 mm. The North Pole V2's 4.0mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, offering a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's 3.4 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it more suitable for those seeking a quicker response time, particularly favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference, with the North Pole V2 offering a deeper key press sensation and the Salt Ice providing a quicker and more responsive feel.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 and dampened sound profile when compared to most switches, providing a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch delivers exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, creating a lively and energetic typing sound. The choice between the two would depend on the user's preference for a more muted or vibrant typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy and chewy typing sensation, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. This unique feel enhances the typing experience and offers a satisfying tactile feedback. As for the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch, details regarding the typing feel are unknown. However, based on its bright and clacky sound profile, users can expect a light and responsive typing feedback that complements the auditory experience.
Overall, both the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The North Pole V2 provides a deep and muted sound with a gummy typing feel, while the Salt Ice switch delivers a bright and clacky sound with a potentially responsive touch. Depending on whether the user prefers a subdued and chewy typing experience or a vibrant and lively one, they can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing sensation. Additionally, factors such as keyboard choice and keycap selection can further enhance or alter the sound and feel of both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a gummy, creamy, bouncy typing feel with a subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire. Consider trying both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style best.
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