Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Everglide Sunset Yellow. Both switches fall under the linear category, providing a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump of other switch types. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy feel and deep, muted sound profile. Typing on these switches is a delight, offering a satisfying chewy sensation. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switches offer a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. With a rich, bassy, and decadent sound, typing becomes an indulgent experience. Their medium weight makes them suitable for a wide range of users. Additionally, the unique POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding feel. While these generalities provide an overview of each switch's characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper to help you decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$3.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Everglide Sunset Yellow, it is clear that they have distinct differences. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials provide unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 offers a brighter and more vivid auditory experience compared to the POM top housing of the Sunset Yellow.

Moving on to the bottom housings, we find similar contrasts between the two keyboards. The North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing, like its top housing, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is consistent with the properties of polycarbonate, which imparts a clear and resonant sound to the switch. As for the Sunset Yellow, its POM bottom housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. This creates a unique auditory experience that differs from the sharper and crisper sound generated by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2. Thus, while both keyboards provide distinct sound qualities, the North Pole V2 is more likely to deliver a brighter and sharper bottom-out sound, while the Sunset Yellow will offer a deeper and more subdued bottom-out experience.

When considering the overall impact of the top and bottom housings on the sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that the choice of housing material plays a significant role. The top housing, whether it be polycarbonate or POM, affects the sound when releasing a key, creating either a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and more muted one. Conversely, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down. In this regard, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 enhances the sharpness and clarity of the bottom-out sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow provides a deeper and more subdued bottom-out experience. Despite these differences, it's important to note that both keyboards offer unique sound profiles that can be appreciated according to personal preference.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, it is clear that they have different force requirements. The North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sunset Yellow's 43 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the North Pole V2 is 65 grams, while the Sunset Yellow requires 51 grams.

This distinction in force requirements means that the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, making it suitable for those who prefer a weightier keystroke. This can enhance the typing experience and provide a satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for users who prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience.

Considering the weight of the switch is essential for users who have specific preferences. Those who enjoy typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions may opt for a lighter switch, such as the Sunset Yellow. This lighter weight allows for less strain on the fingers and hands, preventing fatigue during prolonged use. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may choose the heavier North Pole V2, as it provides a greater sense of resistance and feedback when pressing the keys.

Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches differ, offering varying degrees of push feel and resistance. By understanding one's typing preferences and requirements, users can make an informed decision regarding which switch is best suited for their needs.

Travel distance

The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In terms of travel distance, the North Pole V2 is longer than the Sunset Yellow. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the North Pole V2 is more traditional, offering a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a hearty depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the Sunset Yellow is shorter, which is often favored by gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times. It provides a more responsive feel when typing. So, depending on personal preference and typing needs, one can choose between the longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 or the shorter travel distance of the Sunset Yellow to achieve the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 provides a deep and muted sound profile that can be described as gummy. It offers a more subtle sound compared to most switches, giving a dampened typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch offers a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. With a rich and bassy sound, typing becomes an indulgent experience. It produces a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 provides a gummy typing experience, making it feel like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It offers a unique and chewy sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. With a creamy texture, it feels like gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly. It provides a polished and frictionless feel, resulting in reduced resistance and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a creamy sensation, making them suitable for those seeking a smooth typing experience.

Based on the available information, it is clear that both switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron North Pole V2 has a gummy sound profile and offers a chewy typing feel, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow produces a deep and bassy sound and provides a smooth, polished, and frictionless typing experience. Although they have some similarities in terms of their creamy feel, the overall sound and feel of these switches are distinct. Depending on individual preferences, one can choose the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch each have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gummy typing feel, the North Pole V2 is an excellent choice. It offers a deep and muted sound profile, creating a more subtle sound signature during key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a more indulgent typing experience, the Sunset Yellow is the way to go. Its rich, bassy sound profile resembling mahjong tiles colliding and its creamy and frictionless feel make typing a smooth and buttery experience. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a gummy typing feel with a subdued sound or a more indulgent typing experience with a bassy and thocky sound.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more