Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile offer two distinct options. On one hand, the North Pole V2 is a linear switch known for its gummy and creamy typing feel, accompanied by a deep and muted sound profile. With its bouncy and polished characteristics, this switch caters to those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile by Wuque strikes a balance between tactility and noise reduction, making it a great choice for office environments. With ingenious stem railings and small cutouts, it maintains a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return while maintaining an impressively silent profile. By forgoing silicone dampeners, these switches offer a unique and unrivaled blend of tranquility and tactility. 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
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 housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and physical characteristics. The North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switch housings in RGB lighting setups. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounded sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 shares similar characteristics with its top housing counterpart. It contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, maintaining consistency throughout the switch. Again, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it visually appealing for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile incorporates a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
It's important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ within a switch, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when the key is released. In terms of similarities, both switches utilize materials that enhance their respective sound profiles - polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound in the Gateron North Pole V2, and nylon for a deeper and fuller sound in the WS Silent Tactile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the North Pole V2 requires 50 grams of force while the WS Silent Tactile's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches can provide a medium-heavy typing experience. Moving on to the bottom out force, the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams to fully depress the key, whereas the WS Silent Tactile requires slightly less force at 63.5 grams. This makes the WS Silent Tactile slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. Considering weight preferences, those who desire a lighter typing experience may opt for the North Pole V2, allowing them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the WS Silent Tactile, as its slightly heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push and a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, we can see that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the North Pole V2 is more traditional, providing a good balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile is shallower and may appeal more to gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances are becoming more common nowadays, catering to the preferences of those seeking quicker feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - if you enjoy a more substantial feel, the North Pole V2 may be the better option, while those who prefer a quicker response may lean towards the WS Silent Tactile. In either case, both switches offer a satisfying typing 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 Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a deep and muted sound profile. While it is not completely silent, it provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch has a muted sound profile and effectively minimizes switch sound with ingenious stem railings and small cutouts. It offers a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return, resulting in an impressively silent profile. Both switches aim to reduce noise, with the North Pole V2 providing a more subdued sound and the WS Silent Tactile achieving an even quieter experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is described as gummy, offering a unique typing experience reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It provides a chewy and satisfying feeling when typing. The WS Silent Tactile switch, on the other hand, is accentuated with pronounced tactile feedback. It strikes a delicate balance between providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. This switch offers a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. While the North Pole V2 emphasizes a gummy and bouncy feel, the WS Silent Tactile focuses on accentuated tactility and an invigorating typing experience.
Considering the available information, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The North Pole V2 offers a deep and muted sound profile with a gummy and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch prioritizes noise reduction with a muted sound profile while providing an invigorating typing experience with accentuated tactility. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, but they cater to different preferences. Depending on the individual's preference for sound and feel, one can choose between the more subdued and gummy experience of the North Pole V2 or the quieter and invigorating tactile feedback of the WS Silent Tactile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be an ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy typing experience that many enthusiasts enjoy. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a medium level of tactility without compromising on sound reduction. The WS Silent Tactile switches feature ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, resulting in a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return, while maintaining an impressively silent profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a gummy and chewy typing experience or a balance between tactility and noise reduction, both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches have unique qualities to offer.
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