Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Dareu Sky V4, both linear switches. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy feel when typing, providing a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfyingly chewy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 distinguishes itself with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action for a rich and satisfying typing experience. While the North Pole V2 offers a gummy and creamy feel, the Sky V4 provides a thocky and neutral experience. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Dareu Sky V4 both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing in the North Pole V2 offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the POK top housing in the Sky V4 provides a smooth and clacky typing experience, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. While both materials offer their own distinct advantages, the POK material in the Sky V4 edges out in terms of smoothness and durability.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the North Pole V2 offers a similar sharp and clear sound profile as its top housing counterpart. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Sky V4 produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in material properties affects the overall typing experience, with the North Pole V2 delivering a crisper sound while the Sky V4 providing a more rounded sound.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in both switches plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and feel of each key press. While the North Pole V2 leans towards a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile with its polycarbonate housing, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a smoother and clacky typing experience with its POK and nylon housing combination. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and durability.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the North Pole V2 is the heavier of the two. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which classifies it as a medium-light switch. The difference in weight between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the North Pole V2 for its stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the Sky V4 due to its lighter weight, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is clear that the Sky V4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the North Pole V2's 4 mm. This means that the Sky V4 offers a slightly quicker response time, making it more preferred by gamers who value speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more stable and tactile feel when typing. Both switches provide different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the Sky V4 being the shorter option and the North Pole V2 being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 sound profile, providing a dampened and more subtle typing experience, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a thocky sound signature, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the North Pole V2 being more muted and the Sky V4 being more pronounced and bass-heavy.
Moving on to feel, the North Pole V2 switch is known for its gummy typing feel, offering a unique experience akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch also provides a bouncy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback when typing. Both switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience, with the North Pole V2 feeling more cushioned and the Sky V4 offering a lively rebound with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch each bring their own set of subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the North Pole V2 offers a gummy typing feel and a subdued sound profile, the Sky V4 provides a bouncy typing sensation and a thocky sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and sound profile, but users can expect a satisfying and unique experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the key differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gummy, chewy typing feel with a subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a POK material top housing that offers a deep thocky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Sky V4 could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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