Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Durock T1 present two enticing options for enthusiasts. The New North Pole V2, a linear switch, has made waves in the community with its removal of the rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience while still retaining the frictionless typing feel the North Pole lineup is known for. On the other hand, the Durock T1, a tactile switch, offers a different kind of typing experience. With its medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, the T1 provides a super comfortable feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and qualities that may appeal to different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches. Its relatively stiffer plastic composition leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it an ideal choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the New North Pole V2 and the T1 will offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits due to their polycarbonate top housings.
While the top housings of both switches are made of polycarbonate, they differ in terms of their bottom housings. The New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, like its top housing counterpart, contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the T1 features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer plastic composition. It absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when comparing the bottom housings, the New North Pole V2 will offer a crisper sound, while the T1 will provide a deeper and fuller sound experience.
In summary, the New North Pole V2 and the Durock T1 share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, resulting in sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them suitable for use with RGB lighting. However, they differ in terms of their bottom housings. The New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to its overall crisp sound, while the T1's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Overall, these differences in housing materials offer distinct sound experiences when pressing down on the switches or releasing a key.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that there are differences between the two. The actuation force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 is 50 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Durock T1 is unknown. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium force range. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 is 62.5 grams, slightly lighter than the Durock T1's 67 grams, which qualifies as medium-heavy.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gateron New North Pole V2, enabling them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This would be ideal for individuals using the keyboard for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals desiring a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Durock T1, which offers a stronger push force. This heavier bottom out force could provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a greater sense of feedback when typing.
While the exact actuation force of the Durock T1 is unknown, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium force category. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation force, but may experience a slightly heavier bottom out force with the Durock T1. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron New 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 New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 New North Pole V2 linear switch does not have a specific description provided. However, based on the information given about its lack of rubber dampener and crisp typing experience, we can infer that it will likely produce a clean and smooth sound without any noticeable vibrations or excessive noise. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it will have a deeper and more bass-heavy tone compared to switches with higher pitches. The sound of both switches may also be influenced by variables such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is known for its frictionless and seamless glide. While it does not have a specific descriptor for its feel, the absence of a rubber dampener and the retention of its hallmark feature suggest that it provides a smooth and fluid typing experience. It is likely to offer reduced friction and effortless key travel. Conversely, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, which indicates that it has a two-stage feel. This means that users can expect to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. Additionally, the T1 switch is also mentioned to be accented, which suggests a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Although the specific typing feel of the New North Pole V2 linear switch is not compared to the T1, it is clear that both switches offer unique tactile experiences.
Considering all the available information, we can conclude that the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The New North Pole V2 linear switch provides a frictionless and seamless glide, resulting in an effortless typing experience. Its sound profile is not specified, but it is likely to be clean and smooth. On the other hand, the T1 tactile switch offers a stepped feel with a medium level of tactility. Its sound is low-pitched, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining which switch is suitable for a user. If you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with a focus on sound, the New North Pole V2 linear switch could be a great choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a tactile feel and enjoy a low-pitched sound, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, it is recommended to try out different switches and consult user reviews to make an informed decision based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it provides a medium pressure that is comfortable for most typists. The removal of the rubber dampener in the New North Pole V2s enhances the crispness of the typing experience while still maintaining the seamless glide and smoothness that users love.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feel while typing, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a better choice. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy pressure that provides a satisfying feedback. The T1 switch has a medium bump when pressed down, giving it a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. The sound of the T1 switch is also reminiscent of rain falling on a window, adding to the overall tactile experience.
In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2 switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. However, based on Gateron's reputation for a smooth typing experience, it is safe to say that the sound profile would likely be neutral or moderate. On the other hand, the T1 switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This makes it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. This means that it offers a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The T1 switch, on the other hand, is described as stepped, accented, and polished. This means that it provides a more mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, while still offering a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the New North Pole V2 switch would be a great choice. However, if you enjoy a more tactile feel while typing, the T1 switch would suit you better. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and feel to make the decision that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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