Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are several factors to consider. Two popular options are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, both of which are linear switches. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy feel and deep, muted sound profile, providing a satisfying and chewy typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue offers a thocky sound profile and a lengthened single-stage spring, resulting in a bouncy feel with each keystroke. These switches strike a balance with their standard spring weight, making them enjoyable and accessible to a wide range of users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron North Pole V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in similar qualities for both switches in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, enhancing the overall auditory experience when typing or gaming. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, creating visually appealing effects when illuminated. Therefore, users of both switches can expect comparable results in terms of sound and lighting effects due to the shared polycarbonate top and bottom housings.

When it comes to distinguishing between the two switches, the main difference lies in the branding and design. The Gateron North Pole V2 features its own unique design and branding, while the Everglide Tourmaline Blue has its own distinct design as well. These aesthetic differences may be a matter of personal preference for users who prioritize the visual appeal of their keyboard setup.

It is worth noting that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings are also similar for both switches. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the tactile feedback when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, adding to the overall auditory experience. Therefore, users of both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue can expect comparable performance and feedback in terms of keypress sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the North Pole V2 requires a lighter 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Tourmaline Blue requires a slightly heavier 59 grams. However, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams of force to fully press down the switch, while the Tourmaline Blue requires a slightly higher 67 grams. Again, both switches can be considered medium-heavy in terms of bottom out force.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the North Pole V2, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may lean towards the Tourmaline Blue, with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces.

In summary, while the North Pole V2 and Tourmaline Blue linear switches differ slightly in their actuation and bottom out forces, both fall within the medium-heavy range. The North Pole V2 provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended periods of typing, whereas the Tourmaline Blue offers a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push.

Travel distance

The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance traveled. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of key press sensitivity and feedback when using either switch. Both switches provide a comfortable travel distance that allows for smooth and efficient typing experiences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as producing a deep and muted sound profile. It offers a more subtle and dampened sound compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience. While the North Pole V2 has a subdued sound, the Tourmaline Blue has a more moderate sound profile that is suitable for most users.

In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 switch provides a gummy typing experience. When bottoming out, it feels like pressing down on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, it has a creamy and polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch offers a bouncy and buttery typing feel. With a lengthened single-stage spring, each keystroke provides a satisfying rebound and a seamless, effortless typing sensation. The Tourmaline Blue switch is also described as easy-to-press, providing a gentle resistance and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The mild characteristics of the Tourmaline Blue switch make it approachable to most individuals, offering a comfortable and responsive typing experience.

In summary, the Gateron North Pole V2 and Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches have distinct subjective qualities. The North Pole V2 offers a gummy typing feel and a subdued sound profile, while the Tourmaline Blue provides a bouncy typing feel and a more moderate sound profile. Both switches offer enjoyable and accessible experiences to users, albeit in different ways. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences in terms of sound and typing feel. However, it is worth noting that specific switch qualities can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. With that said, if one seeks a deep and immersive typing experience, both switches can deliver similar results.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 would be a great choice for you. The North Pole V2 has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and offers a gummy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deep and thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel with each keystroke, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue would be a better fit. The Tourmaline Blue has a similar medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams but provides a balance between its spring weight, making it enjoyable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and typing feel, so be sure to consider these factors when making your choice.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more