Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that come to mind are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Red, both of which are linear switches. The North Pole V2 switch is best known for its gummy and creamy typing feel, accompanied by a deep and muted sound profile. This switch falls under the categories of gummy, creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. It retains a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend, but comes with a heavier actuation force that adds a touch of weight to each keystroke, resulting in a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Red switch utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the North Pole V2 and the WS Red switches have different materials and therefore affect the switch characteristics differently. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. This consistency in material allows for a more uniform sound experience throughout keypresses. Conversely, the WS Red employs a nylon bottom housing, which emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.

Although the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, the impact of each housing material encompasses different aspects of the overall typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of the North Pole V2's polycarbonate top and bottom housings results in a consistent and resonant sound profile, whereas the WS Red's nylon housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound overall. Despite these differences, both switches ensure a satisfactory and enjoyable typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the North Pole V2 is 50 grams, whereas the actuation force of the WS Red is unavailable, meaning it is not specified. However, both switches have a bottom out force that falls within the medium-heavy range, with the North Pole V2 at 65 grams and the WS Red at 67 grams.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the North Pole V2 might be a suitable choice, as its lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without causing too much fatigue. This can be advantageous for individuals who use their keyboard extensively at work or during prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience, the WS Red might be a better option, as its actuation force is either unknown or potentially higher than the North Pole V2. This increased force can provide a stronger push feel, adding a sense of satisfaction and precision to each keystroke.

In conclusion, while the actuation force differs between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Red, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category for bottom out force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with the North Pole V2 offering a lighter feel for prolonged use, and the WS Red potentially providing a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the North Pole V2 being slightly longer. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become more popular, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the WS Red with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the North Pole V2 with its slightly longer travel distance for a more satisfying and in-depth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a subdued sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a deep and muted sound, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is described as gummy. Typing on these switches will give you a unique typing experience, as it feels like bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, they offer a creamy sensation, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Furthermore, the North Pole V2 switch is described as bouncy, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively keys that rebound when pressed. Unfortunately, there is no available information about the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch.

Overall, based on the available information, the Gateron North Pole V2 and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The North Pole V2 provides a subdued sound profile and a gummy, creamy, and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, there is no specific information about the sound or feel of the WS Red switch. If you prefer the qualities mentioned for the North Pole V2, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. However, it is always recommended to try out different switches to determine which ones suit your personal preferences the best.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a delightful and gummy typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 is the switch for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a satisfying chewy typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red is the choice to make. With its 22mm double-stage spring, it delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While we don't have specific information on the sound profile of the WS Red, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize a gummy and muted typing experience or a bouncy and substantial one. Consider your typing preferences and select the switch that aligns with what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more