Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron North Pole V2, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy feel, offering a satisfying chewy typing experience. With a deep and muted sound profile, this switch is perfect for those who prefer a subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is ideal for those looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility. Its long, two-staged spring provides a deep and resonating thock sound when typing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, offering a different typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron North Pole V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both utilize polycarbonate in both their top and bottom housings. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the overall clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, making it a practical choice for those interested in customizable lighting effects.
Although both switches share the same housing materials, it is important to note that the properties of the top and bottom housings can have separate impacts on the overall experience. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to a satisfying and tactile sensation when pressing down on the keys. Conversely, the top housing's influence becomes more prominent when releasing a key, impacting the sound that is produced upon key release.
In terms of the sound profile and quality, both switches are likely to yield similar results due to their shared use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings. This means that users can expect a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile from either switch. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in both housings enhances the overall clarity and resonance of the sound. Whether choosing the Gateron North Pole V2 or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with impressive sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the North Pole V2 requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 55 grams. This means that the North Pole V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force. On the other hand, when it comes to bottom out force, the North Pole V2 has a higher requirement of 65 grams compared to the 63 grams required by the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Therefore, the North Pole V2 is heavier in terms of bottom out force. It's worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range, providing a balance between a substantial typing experience and the ability to type for longer periods of time. Overall, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the North Pole V2, while those seeking a slightly heavier bottom out feel may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. Whether you choose the Gateron North Pole V2 or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and key feel.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best known for its gummy typing sound and feel. When typing on these switches, users can expect a deep and muted sound profile, creating a more subtle and dampened typing experience. The feel of the North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy, providing a unique sensation similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience, thanks to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in its construction. This results in smooth key travel and reduced friction while typing, allowing for effortless keystrokes.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its clacky sound and feel. When typing on these switches, users will experience deep and resonating thocks, which can be described as sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. This switch variant offers a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring design. The feel of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp and accented, providing a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. Additionally, these switches offer a snappy and bouncy typing experience, with super responsiveness and a spring-like feedback sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The North Pole V2 provides a gummy and subdued sound profile, along with a gummy, creamy, and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, accompanied by a sharp, accented, snappy, and bouncy typing feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between these switches to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron North Pole V2 is an excellent choice. It offers a unique typing experience with a gummy feel, resembling bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The sound profile is subdued, providing a more subtle and dampened sound when pressed. This switch is perfect if you prefer a deep and muted typing feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a great option. It features a long, two-staged spring that provides a medium-high level of tactility. The typing experience is characterized by deep and resonating thocks, giving a satisfying feedback while typing. The sound profile is clacky and high-pitched, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a linear switch with a unique gummy feel and a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium tactility level and deep thocks sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect match. Consider your preferred typing experience and sound signature to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, both switches offer their own unique characteristics that will enhance your typing experience.
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