Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Oil King, a linear switch, it's clear that each offers unique advantages for different preferences. The Aliaz switch is tailored for quiet environments like the office, with a silent design that ensures minimal noise while typing. It provides a medium-heavy weight, giving each keystroke a substantial feel and a more pronounced typing feedback. On the other hand, the Oil King switch stands out for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, making it a favorite among linear switch enthusiasts. The Oil King switch offers a low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Aliaz and Oil King switches will depend on whether you prioritize a silent and tactile typing experience or a smooth and linear one. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Oil King differ in their housing materials, with the Aliaz featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing while the Oil King has a nylon top housing and a proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The polycarbonate material used in the Aliaz creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon material in the Oil King results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, perfect for those looking for a duller and rounder sound. Both housing materials offer unique acoustic characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Aliaz's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it a great choice for users who want to showcase RGB lighting in their keyboard setup. In contrast, the Oil King's nylon top housing may not be as visually appealing for those seeking a clear housing for RGB lighting effects. However, the Oil King compensates with its classic and timeless look that may appeal to users looking for a more understated design. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and visual aesthetics.
When it comes to typing experience, the housing materials of the Aliaz and Oil King play a significant role in determining the overall feel of the switch. The bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or the INK blend, will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound when a key is released. While the Aliaz and Oil King offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience for users with varying preferences. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Aliaz or the Oil King, you can expect a high-quality keyboard switch with unique acoustic qualities tailored to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Aliaz has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Oil King's 55 grams, making the Aliaz slightly heavier to press down initially. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aliaz requires 75 grams whereas the Oil King only requires 65 grams, making the Aliaz heavier overall. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out force, while the Oil King offers a slightly lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Oil King may be the better option, while the Aliaz is better suited for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force, providing users with options based on their preference for typing weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch both share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience with both switches will be consistent in terms of how far the key travels when actuated. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of keypress actuation experience, making them equally suitable for users looking for a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile that adds a unique depth to each keystroke. While the Aliaz focuses on minimizing noise, the Oil King enhances the auditory experience with a smooth and rich tone.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth typing experience. The Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, providing a refined and effortless keystroke. Similarly, the Oil King switch boasts a creamy and silky feel, creating a buttery typing sensation that is akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches aim to reduce friction and enhance key travel, ensuring a seamless and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is ideal for those seeking a quiet and tactile typing experience, with a medium-heavy weight for a substantial feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a smooth and buttery keystroke with a unique sound profile that adds depth to the typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer high-quality options that can elevate your typing experience. Whether you choose the Aliaz for its muted sound and pronounced feedback, or the Oil King for its smoothness and rich tones, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider the environment and the typing experience you prefer. If you value a quiet typing experience and want a substantial tactile feedback with a heavier touch, the Aliaz switch would be suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a lower pitch sound profile and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Oil King switch would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you find most comfortable and satisfying.
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