Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The North Pole V2 is best known for its delightful linear switch with a gummy typing feel and a deep, muted sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque offer an elevated office and work experience with their exceptional responsiveness, satisfying bottom-out, and ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts. These switches masterfully reduce switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, providing a distinct typing experience that blends tranquility and precision. While the North Pole V2 provides a chewy and polished typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a neutral and mild feel with a subtle cushioned sensation. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear have contrasting materials for their top and bottom housings. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Silent Linear uses a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate in the North Pole V2's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the North Pole V2 and the WS Silent Linear also differ. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the WS Silent Linear incorporates a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate in the North Pole V2's bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the nylon in the WS Silent Linear's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic.
When comparing these switches, it's important to note the impact of the different housing materials. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material in each switch will affect the overall typing experience, with the North Pole V2 providing sharper and crisper sound profiles due to its polycarbonate housing, and the WS Silent Linear delivering deeper and fuller sound profiles with its nylon housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS Silent Linear's actuation force is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams, whereas the WS Silent Linear requires 63.5 grams. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight, some people prefer a lighter switch as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without feeling fatigued. This makes it suitable for keyboards used at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. For such individuals, switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In terms of actuation force, it is difficult to compare the two switches directly as the value for the WS Silent Linear is unavailable. However, it is safe to assume that it would be similar to the North Pole V2 since both switches fall under the medium-heavy category for bottom out force. Therefore, users can expect a somewhat similar actuation force experience from both switches.
In conclusion, while the exact actuation force for the WS Silent Linear switch is unknown, it can still be recommended for individuals looking for a medium-heavy linear switch. The Gateron North Pole V2 offers a slightly heavier actuation force at 50 grams, compared to the WS Silent Linear's unknown value. However, both switches require a similar bottom out force, providing a substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. The North Pole V2 offers a more traditional travel distance, while the WS Silent Linear provides a shallower distance. Shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press may find the longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 to be more suitable. Ultimately, the preference for travel distance depends on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming 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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as gummy. When typing on these switches, you can expect a deep and muted sound profile, offering a more subtle sound signature when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches are described as having a neutral sound profile with muted characteristics. They provide a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The WS Silent Linear switches also offer a more dampened sound when pressed, creating a subdued sound experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its gummy typing experience. When bottoming out on these switches, it'll feel like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. They provide a unique and chewy typing feel that some users may find satisfying. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer a more mild typing experience. These switches provide a gentle and approachable feel, making them suitable for a wide range of users. The qualities of the WS Silent Linear switches stand in a safe and middle-ground zone, offering a typing experience that is comfortable and responsive.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The North Pole V2 provides a gummy sound and feel, with a deep and muted sound profile and a chewy typing experience. Meanwhile, the WS Silent Linear offers a neutral sound profile with muted characteristics and a mild typing experience. While they differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their own unique qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. However, if you enjoy a more subdued sound and a comfortable typing feel, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a delightful and gummy typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is the better choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a satisfying chewy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is perfect for those who prioritize a quiet office or work environment. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively reducing switch noise while delivering unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the WS Silent Linear switch falls under the medium-heavy category like the North Pole V2. When it comes to sound, the North Pole V2 is more subdued, providing a dampened sound when pressed. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear offers a neutral sound profile with muted and subdued characteristics. In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 is described as gummy, offering a unique typing experience akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch provides a more mild and gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch depends on whether you prioritize a delightful and gummy typing experience with a deep sound profile or a quiet and responsive typing experience with a more neutral sound profile.
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