Gateron North Pole V2 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, we see two linear switches that offer their own unique characteristics. The North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy and creamy typing experience, providing a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfyingly bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out for its blend of bouncy and clacky attributes, with a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The first major difference between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai lies in their bottom housing materials. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. On the other hand, the Xinhai's bottom housing is made of nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a crisper sound versus those who prefer a more muffled, rounder sound.
Moving on to the top housing materials, both the North Pole V2 and the Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for this component. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Despite using the same material for their top housing, the switches may still have subtle variations in sound due to differences in design or manufacturing processes.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai ultimately comes down to personal preference. The North Pole V2 offers a consistent, clear, and resonant sound profile throughout its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, while the Xinhai provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. Both switches deliver a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective housing materials, showcasing how small differences in construction can significantly impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is lighter in both aspects. The North Pole V2 has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Xinhai has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Xinhai would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai. The difference may not be significant, but if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the keypress, the North Pole V2 might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker response time and a more shallow keypress, the Xinhai might be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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 offers a subdued and dampened sound profile when pressed, creating a quiet and more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive sound with each keystroke. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the North Pole V2 providing a quieter typing environment while the Xinhai offers a more energetic and distinct sound.
Moving on to the feel, the North Pole V2 switch is described as having a gummy and chewy typing feel, akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel and a creamy and smooth typing experience. Both switches provide a different tactile sensation, with the North Pole V2 offering a more cushioned feel and the Xinhai providing a spring-like feedback.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, it's evident that they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The North Pole V2 is best suited for those who prefer a quieter and more cushioned typing experience, while the Xinhai is ideal for individuals who enjoy a more energetic and bouncy feel with a crisp sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prioritizes sound, feel, or a combination of both when it comes to their mechanical keyboard switch preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and typing sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a gummy and muted sound profile with a satisfying chewy typing feel, then the North Pole V2 might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch that offers a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, then the Xinhai could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what attributes are most important to you when making your decision.
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