Gateron North Pole V2 vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Yanyu are two popular mechanical keyboard switches, both falling under the linear switch category. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy typing experience, offering a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or for individuals who spend extended periods of time typing. The Yanyu switch's material blend provides it with a crisp sound profile. While these general descriptions give us a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, it is important to delve deeper to make an informed decision on which switch is the most suitable for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. This blend offers a more pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side.
In terms of the bottom housing, the North Pole V2 also employs polycarbonate, contributing to its similar sound profile as the top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the bottom housing ensures a clear and resonant sound when the switch is pressed. On the other hand, the Yanyu features a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. This unique blend brings its distinct sound qualities to the switch. However, due to the split of housing materials, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released.
Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and achieve it through their respective housing materials. The North Pole V2 and Yanyu both offer distinct sound profiles that appeal to different preferences. Additionally, their use of translucent materials in the top housing allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects. Overall, while the materials differ, both switches ensure an enjoyable typing experience with their unique housing choices.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, which indicates the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Yanyu is not specified. This lack of information makes it difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the North Pole V2 requires 65 grams of force to fully press the key down. This heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, which may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter switch to type on.
Considering the weight of the switches, it is worth noting that some users may prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, others may prioritize a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience. In this context, the Gateron North Pole V2 can be considered as the heavier option with both its actuation and bottom out forces being greater than those of the Yanyu. Therefore, if one prefers a lighter switch, the Yanyu would be the recommended choice.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Yanyu remains unknown, there is a clear difference in the bottom out force between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Yanyu. The North Pole V2 requires a heavier amount of force for both actuation and bottoming out, providing a more substantial typing experience. Meanwhile, the Yanyu offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be preferable for individuals seeking a gentler typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a similar distance of travel. Both switches offer the same tactile experience in terms of the distance that the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron North Pole V2 or the SP-Star Yanyu switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 produces a deep and muted sound profile, described as "gummy." This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a more subdued sound, not completely silent but with a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is known for a more crisp sound profile, described as "neutral." It has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as "thocky," producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a unique typing experience described as "gummy," where bottoming out feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, it is also described as "creamy" and "bouncy," providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The North Pole V2 switch can also be perceived as "polished," providing a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a more gentle and approachable typing experience, described as "mild" and "subtle." It falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, providing qualities that will be comfortable for most users. Additionally, it is also described as "feathery," meaning it requires little exertion from your fingers and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similar to the North Pole V2 switch, the Yanyu switch is also described as "polished," offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The North Pole V2 provides a gummy sound profile and a range of feelings such as creamy, bouncy, and polished. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a more delicate and mild sound profile, as well as a feathery and subtle typing feel. Both switches have a polished finish, providing a smooth typing experience with reduced friction. Depending on personal preferences, typing needs, and the other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, each switch can offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a more delicate typing experience, perfect for long periods of typing, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be the better option. Additionally, if you value a more subdued sound when typing, the North Pole V2 provides a dampened sound profile. However, if you prefer a switch with a moderate sound profile and actuation force suitable for different scenarios, the Yanyu would be a versatile choice. In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 offers a gummy typing experience, while the Yanyu provides a more mild and feathery feel. Both switches also have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Depending on your preferences and typing needs, you can make an informed decision between the Gateron North Pole V2 and SP-Star Yanyu switches.
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