Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer a unique typing experience. The North Pole V2 is well-loved for its gummy, creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished characteristics, providing a satisfying and chewy typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, emphasizing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons why you might want to choose them, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is also transparent, making it ideal for switches intended to showcase RGB lighting. However, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Zero Degree 0° stands out with its nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with this material. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a smoother and more rounded sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
In terms of sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer contrasting experiences due to their different housing materials. The North Pole V2, with polycarbonate top and bottom housings, delivers a clear and resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched tone. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0°'s combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound that is softer and absorbs more sound. This difference in sound profile can significantly impact the typing experience and the overall feel of each switch. While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the inclusion of nylon in the Zero Degree 0° sets it apart from the North Pole V2 in terms of sound characteristics.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the addition of nylon in the Zero Degree 0°'s bottom housing sets it apart in terms of sound depth and absorption. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and sharper sound, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience, while the softer nylon in the bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0° provides a smoother and fuller sound profile. These materials work together to create unique typing experiences for users based on their preference for sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the North Pole V2 is heavier in both categories. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the North Pole V2 is 65 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. Despite the differences in force, both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Zero Degree 0° may be the preferred choice, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. The North Pole V2 with its 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more key travel, providing a deeper and more tactile feel when typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° with its 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower key press, which may be preferred by those looking for a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key travel depth 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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The North Pole V2 provides a subdued sound profile and a gummy and creamy typing feel, creating a satisfying typing experience with a muted sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on revolutionizing silent typing with its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, providing unparalleled smoothness and stability during typing. While specific descriptions of the sound and feel of the Zero Degree 0° are not provided, it can be inferred that it offers a different experience compared to the North Pole V2. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, based on the provided information, users can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a gummy, creamy, bouncy, or polished typing feel with a subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with unknown bottom out force that offers a revolutionary self-padding design for smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, the Zero Degree 0° might be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
