Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and Gateron Type L mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The North Pole V2 is known for its gummy, creamy, and subdued typing experience, providing a bouncy and polished feel while emitting a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Type L stands out for its lightness, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and offering a neutral and subdued typing experience that is easy-to-press with a feathery touch. While both switches have their unique qualities, the North Pole V2 appeals to those who enjoy a chewy and satisfying typing feel, while the Type L is ideal for users looking for a lighter and more effortless typing 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

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

Gateron Type L Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$4.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile overall. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L features a nylon top and bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a rounder and duller sound compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate housing.

When comparing the top housing materials of the North Pole V2 and Type L, the translucent polycarbonate of the North Pole V2 allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. In contrast, the opaque nylon of the Type L may not offer the same level of customization with RGB lighting but provides a different typing experience with its deeper sound profile. While the bottom housings of both switches play a role in the overall sound and feel of the switch, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 may contribute to a more pronounced bottom-out sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Type L offers a different tactile experience.

Overall, the choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 and Gateron Type L ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profiles and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the polycarbonate housing of the North Pole V2 providing a sharper sound and crisper feel, while the nylon housing of the Type L delivers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prioritize aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting or prefer a more tactile typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it's clear that the Type L is the lighter option in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The North Pole V2 requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams, making it a heavier option. Similarly, the bottom out force of the North Pole V2 is 65 grams, while the Type L has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations may find the Type L more comfortable, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel to their keystrokes may opt for the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and overall feel of these switches will be very similar. Whether you choose the North Pole V2 or the Type L, you can expect a consistent travel distance and tactile response, providing a smooth typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and more subtle sound when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch produces a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches lean towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, but the North Pole V2's sound signature is described as deeper and more muted compared to the Type L. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

Moving on to the typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is characterized by a gummy typing experience, where bottoming out feels akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a feathery typing sensation, requiring little exertion from the fingers due to its light actuation force. The North Pole V2 provides a chewy and bouncy feel, while the Type L offers an easy-to-press and comfortable typing experience. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue and enhance the overall typing feel, but they do so in slightly different ways.

When looking at all the available information, it is clear that the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the North Pole V2 provides a deeper and more muted sound along with a gummy typing sensation, the Type L offers a neutral sound profile and a feathery typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between these switches to cater to their specific needs. Overall, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with different subjective qualities.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a deep and muted sound profile with a satisfying chewy typing feel, then the North Pole V2 would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and a sound profile that elegantly veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, along with a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, then the Type L would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more