Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

The Gateron North Pole V2 and Gazzew U4 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer different typing experiences. The North Pole V2 is a linear switch known for its gummy typing feel and deep, muted sound profile. On the other hand, the U4 is a tactile switch that provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Additionally, the U4s have a whisper-quiet sound profile. These switches offer distinct advantages depending on your preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a muted sound, the North Pole V2 may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a tactile bump and a quieter typing experience, the Gazzew U4 could be the better choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide on the best switch for your personal preference.

By the numbers

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This material is relatively stiff, leading to a clear and resonant sound when the switch is pressed. In comparison, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness.

In terms of aesthetics, the Gateron North Pole V2's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend does not offer this translucency. However, both switches have visually appealing qualities, with the North Pole V2 showcasing a clear housing and the U4 offering a unique blend that sets it apart.

When it comes to the impact on the overall switch experience, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housings for both switches. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, which means the Gateron North Pole V2's stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a crisper and clearer sound when a key is fully pressed. Similarly, the Gazzew U4's soft "boba plastic" bottom housing offers a distinct deep sound when bottoming out. On the other hand, the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when a key is released. Thus, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound upon key release, while the U4's proprietary blend delivers a rich and distinct sound in the same scenario.

In summary, while the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4 differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles. The North Pole V2's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, and its translucency makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 utilizes a proprietary blend with a softness that delivers a rich and deep sound. Despite their differences, both switches employ the split housing design, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of weight. The actuation force for the North Pole V2 is slightly heavier at 50 grams, while the U4 requires a lighter force of 43 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the North Pole V2 is again slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the U4's 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a substantial typing experience. However, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the U4 due to its lighter actuation force, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the North Pole V2. Overall, both switches offer a balanced weight that allows for comfortable and efficient typing, regardless of personal preference.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the U4 has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The North Pole V2 falls in the range of a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the U4 offers a shallower travel distance, which is preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the U4 would be the better option, while individuals who prefer a more profound keystroke experience may opt for the North Pole V2. Despite their differing travel distances, both switches are effective in their functionality, resulting in a similar experience overall.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best known for its gummy feel when typing. It provides a deep and muted sound profile, giving a satisfying and chewy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. It has an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and a whisper-quiet sound profile. The North Pole V2 has a more subdued sound, which produces a dampened sound when pressed. It offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The U4, on the other hand, has a muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. It has a low-pitched tone, giving a bass-heavy and mellow sound.

In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 switch is gummy, offering a unique typing experience similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It also provides a creamy sensation, allowing for smooth and buttery keystrokes. The switch has a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback and lively keys with rebound. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the U4 switch offers a sharp tactile bump, known for its high feedback intensity. This crisp and distinct tactile bump can be felt with each keypress.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron North Pole V2 and Gazzew U4 switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The North Pole V2 provides a gummy and muted sound, along with a creamy, bouncy, and polished feel. In contrast, the U4 offers a muted and low-pitched sound, along with a sharp and exhilarating tactile feel. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, both switches provide unique and satisfying typing experiences, and depending on individual preferences, either switch can deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a smoother and more refined typing experience, then the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be the better choice for you. With its gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished feel descriptors, you can expect a delightful and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the subdued sound profile offered by the North Pole V2 adds a more subtle and dampened sound when compared to most switches. On the other hand, if you value a strong and distinct tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. The U4 provides a sharp tactile bump that is exhilarating and precise with each keypress. Its sound profile is described as muted and low-pitched, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a smooth and gummy typing feel or a sharp and intense tactile feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more