Gateron New North Pole V2 vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

Introducing two remarkable mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4. Both switches offer unique characteristics and advantages that cater to different preferences. The New North Pole V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its frictionless typing feel and smooth glide, enhanced further by the removal of the rubber dampener found in its predecessor. It provides a polished and creamy typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking a crisp and seamless keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch, stands out with its silent yet exhilarating tactile bump. Typing on this switch offers a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, coupled with a muted and low-pitched sound profile. Its sharp tactile feedback adds a touch of subtlety to your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron New North Pole V2 and the Gazzew U4 switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when compared to other materials. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. In addition, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light distribution. On the other hand, the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, nicknamed "boba plastic," that contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the New North Pole V2 and the U4 utilize their respective materials to influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 maintains the same characteristics as its top housing counterpart. It creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper bottom-out sound when compared to alternative materials. Similarly, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4, being part of the "boba plastic" family, delivers a rich and deep bottom-out sound profile due to its softness. Therefore, while the specific composition may differ, both switches offer distinct qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.

Interestingly, when it comes to the sound produced when releasing a key, the top housing of the switches plays a more significant role. The polycarbonate top housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to the sound profile when letting go of a key, further adding to the already crisp and resonant characteristics of the switch. In contrast, the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4 helps generate a sound that is also rich and deep when releasing a key. This indicates that while the materials differ, both switches incorporate elements in their housing design that impact the auditory experience when disengaging a key.

In summary, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profiles, the Gazzew U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend, called "boba plastic," for its top and bottom housings, offering rich and deep sound characteristics. However, both switches prioritize different aspects of typing experience with their respective housing materials, with the New North Pole V2 focusing on clarity and resonance, and the U4 emphasizing softness and richness.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are both similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the New North Pole V2 requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the U4 requires a lighter 43 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category. As for bottom out force, the New North Pole V2 requires a slightly heavier force of 62.5 grams compared to the U4's 62 grams. While the bottom out forces are similar, the actuation forces differ, with the U4 being lighter than the New North Pole V2.

Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer a lighter option like the U4 as it allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2's heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel.

Overall, while the New North Pole V2 and U4 have similar bottom out forces, the U4 offers a lighter actuation force compared to the New North Pole V2. Understanding personal preferences for typing experiences and the duration of keyboard usage can help individuals decide which switch is more suitable for their needs.

Travel distance

The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The New North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance than the U4, making it the more traditional choice. However, the U4 offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which is becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who desire faster response times. The shorter travel distance provides a more responsive feel. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is not specifically described in the provided information. However, based on its predecessor's reputation for a frictionless typing feel and smoothness, it can be assumed that the sound produced by the New North Pole V2 switch would also be relatively quiet and smooth. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. It is also noted to have a low-pitched tone, which is bass-heavy and mellow. This indicates that the U4 switch would produce a more subdued and smooth sound compared to higher-pitched switches.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is renowned for its frictionless typing experience, which suggests a smooth and effortless key travel. It is described as polished and creamy, offering reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a silky sensation. This indicates that the New North Pole V2 switch provides a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity. Each keypress with the U4 switch can be distinctly felt due to its strong and crisp tactile bump. While the U4 switch does not offer information about its general feel, it is clear that it provides a pronounced tactile feedback.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch differ in terms of their sound and feel qualities. The New North Pole V2 switch offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience, with a sound profile that can be assumed to be relatively quiet and smooth. The U4 switch, on the other hand, provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a muted and low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities and are suitable for different preferences. If you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and refined typing experience, the New North Pole V2 would be a great choice. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a strong tactile bump and a quiet sound profile, the Gazzew U4 would be a suitable option.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a crisper typing experience with a frictionless glide and smoothness, the New North Pole V2 is a good option for you. It offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, providing a sleek and effortless typing experience. Furthermore, the New North Pole V2 has a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which can be suitable for most typists.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a sharp and intense tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 is worth considering. It offers a sharp tactile feedback with every keypress, allowing you to feel the tactile bump distinctly. Additionally, the U4 provides a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding a level of comfort to your keystrokes. The U4 has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, which is similar to the New North Pole V2.

In terms of sound, the New North Pole V2 is not explicitly described, so it is safe to assume that it has a regular or clacky sound typical of mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the U4 is described as producing a whisper quiet and low-pitched sound. If you prefer a softer, quieter, and more bass-heavy sound profile, the U4 may be the better choice for you.

In summary, the New North Pole V2 is known for its frictionless glide, smoothness, and medium bottom out force, offering a polished and creamy typing experience. The U4, on the other hand, stands out with its sharp tactile bump, plush bottom-out sensation, and whisper quiet sound profile. Consider your preference for typing experience and sound when making a decision between these two switches. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more