Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Bsun Tuzi (Bunny)
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) mechanical keyboard switches, one immediately notices the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The North Pole V2 is renowned for its gummy and creamy feel, providing a subdued and bouncy typing experience with a polished sound profile. On the other hand, the Tuzi (Bunny) stands out for its clacky and high-pitched response, offering a silky smooth typing experience that combines the best of clack and smoothness. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
42g
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
Standard
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) is their bottom housing material. The North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Tuzi utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material of the North Pole V2 creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon material of the Tuzi offers a deeper and fuller sound. This means that typing on the North Pole V2 may result in a crisper sound, while typing on the Tuzi may elicit a more rounded sound.
On the other hand, both switches share a common feature in their polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is relatively stiffer, leading to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics related to the top housing, users can expect a similar experience from both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Bsun Tuzi.
In conclusion, the materials used for the top and bottom housing of a switch can greatly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While the Gateron North Pole V2 and Bsun Tuzi both feature polycarbonate top housing, the key difference lies in their bottom housing material. The North Pole V2's use of polycarbonate throughout offers a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, while the Tuzi's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch reveals some key differences. The North Pole V2 has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Tuzi (Bunny) has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 42 grams, classifying it as a light switch. This means that the North Pole V2 requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press down compared to the Tuzi. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Tuzi would be the better option. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the North Pole V2 would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and user preference for mechanical switch keyboards.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Tuzi, which means that it may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. On the other hand, the Tuzi's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, offering a good balance between depth and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tuzi (Bunny) for $3.49.
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 subdued and dampened sound profile, providing a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. In contrast, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for sound, with the North Pole V2 offering a quieter typing experience and the Tuzi providing a more pronounced and lively sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is characterized by its gummy and creamy typing sensation, giving a unique and smooth feel akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback, with the North Pole V2 emphasizing a bouncy and polished feel while the Tuzi focuses on a smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the North Pole V2 excels in providing a subdued and gummy typing experience, the Tuzi stands out for its clacky and silky feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, users can choose between the deep and muted sound of the North Pole V2 or the sharp and smooth sound of the Tuzi for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a satisfying chewy typing feel and a subdued sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a refined typing experience, featuring a clacky and high-pitched sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) would be the ideal option. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when selecting between these two switches to ensure you find the one that best suits your mechanical keyboard needs.