Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade mechanical keyboard switches, it's apparent that both switches offer unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. The North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy and creamy typing feel, with a deep and subdued sound profile that is bouncy and polished. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out for its clacky and resonant sound profile, thanks to the metallic insert in its stem base, and features a smooth and creamy typing experience with a rock-solid bottom-out. Each switch offers a distinct typing experience, with the North Pole V2 providing a delightful chewy feel and the WS Jade offering a bright metallic sound profile and enchanting RGB display. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, it is evident that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting with its translucency. On the other hand, the WS Jade utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the North Pole V2 leans towards a clearer and crisper sound, while the POM of the WS Jade delivers a more subtle and mellower tone.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the North Pole V2 once again uses polycarbonate, emphasizing a sharp and clear sound profile similar to its top housing. In contrast, the WS Jade employs a POM bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and more subdued sound when compared to the North Pole V2. The materials chosen for the bottom housing can significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with polycarbonate being more resonant and POM offering a unique and pleasing sound quality. Despite their differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their distinct housing materials.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback experienced by users. While the Gateron North Pole V2 and Wuque Studio WS Jade differ in their use of polycarbonate and POM for their top and bottom housings, respectively, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether it's a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate or a deeper and more muted tone from POM, users can appreciate the subtle nuances brought about by these housing materials. Ultimately, the right housing material can elevate the typing experience, regardless of whether it's in a North Pole V2 or a WS Jade switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the North Pole V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the WS Jade has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the WS Jade offers a slightly lighter touch. The difference in bottom out force may result in a noticeable variation in typing feel and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Jade. A difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch. The North Pole V2 may provide a slightly more substantial key press feel, while the WS Jade might feel more responsive due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer quality options, but the North Pole V2 may be preferred by those who prefer a longer travel distance, while the WS Jade may be favored by those who prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker response times.
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 Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 per 10 switches.
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
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its subdued sound profile, producing a dampened and muted sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offers a sharp and snappy sound, described as clacky, marbly, and resonant. The WS Jade switch stands out with its bright metallic sound and light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. When it comes to feel, the North Pole V2 is characterized as gummy, providing a chewy typing experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline. In contrast, the WS Jade switch offers a silky and creamy typing feel, ensuring smooth and buttery keystrokes with minimal resistance. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in typing experience. Whether you prefer a subdued and gummy feel with the North Pole V2 or a bright and silky sensation with the WS Jade, both switches will provide satisfying results for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier key press at 65 grams and enjoy a gummy typing feel with a subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch at 60 grams and value a creamy smooth typing experience with a clacky and marbly sound profile, the WS Jade switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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