Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing two linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver stand out as popular choices. The North Pole V2 is best known for its unique "Gummy" feel, offering a deep and muted sound profile that provides a satisfying and chewy typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is recognized for its light actuation force, making it highly suitable for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. While the North Pole V2 is categorized as "Gummy", "Creamy", "Subdued", "Bouncy", and "Polished", the Yellow Silver switch falls under a more simplistic "Neutral" category. These general distinctions can help guide your decision, but let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to determine the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate also allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. So, in terms of sound and aesthetics, users can expect similar results from both switches when it comes to the top housing.
However, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. The North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Yellow Silver employs nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the relatively stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In summary, both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, delivering a sharp and clear sound profile. However, the difference in bottom housing materials leads to variations in sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the Yellow Silver creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 provides a clearer and more resonant sound. Ultimately, users can customize their typing experience based on their preferred sound and feel by choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This means that typing on the North Pole V2 will require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke compared to the Yellow Silver.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for individuals who prioritize comfort during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Yellow Silver switch, as it requires less force to actuate. This lighter actuation force allows for longer typing periods without causing excessive strain on the fingers. In contrast, the North Pole V2 offers a more robust and substantial typing experience, as it requires a heavier force to trigger a keystroke. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more tactile feedback while typing.
In terms of bottoming out, both switches have differing forces. The North Pole V2 requires 65 grams of force to fully press the switch down, while the Yellow Silver requires 55 grams. Therefore, the North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to its actuation force, while the Yellow Silver has a more consistent feel in terms of force required throughout the keystroke.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver will depend on personal preference and typing style. If a lighter switch with a smoother actuation is desired, the Yellow Silver would be a suitable option. However, those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may find the North Pole V2 to be more preferable, despite the slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on keys with either switch will result in a similar feeling and experience. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable travel distance, allowing users to type with ease and precision. So, in terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 described as having a subdued sound profile. When pressed, it produces a dampened sound that is not completely silent, but offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is not available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is known for its gummy typing feel. When typing on these switches and bottoming out, it provides a unique sensation that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, there are descriptions of creamy, bouncy, and polished switches, but it is unclear if these apply specifically to the North Pole V2 switch. On the other hand, no information about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is provided.
Taking into consideration the available information, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is known for its gummy typing feel and subdued sound profile. It offers a deep and muted sound and a satisfying chewy typing experience. While limited information is given about the Yellow Silver switch, it is described as having a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it favorable for gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. It's important to note that both switches have their own unique qualities and preferences may vary depending on personal typing preferences and requirements. Therefore, by considering the similarities in terms of light actuation force and neutral sound profile, one can expect to achieve similar results with the Outemu Yellow Silver switch if aiming for a typing experience that emphasizes speed and responsiveness.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a deep and muted sound profile, and a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 is the way to go. The North Pole V2's gummy and creamy feel, along with its polished finish, offers a unique and smooth typing experience. Additionally, its subdued sound makes it suitable for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is the better choice. This switch is favorable for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. It has a moderate feel and a neutral sound that is suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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