Kailh Berry vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Oil King, both of which are linear switches. The Berry switches are renowned for their hefty typing experience, with a springy type feel and a chalk-like texture. Additionally, they offer a deep sound profile which adds to the overall tactile experience. On the other hand, the Oil King switches are highly regarded for their buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. With a categorization including descriptors such as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, these switches provide a luxurious sensation while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Oil King differ significantly. The Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Berry's polycarbonate top housing is transparent, making it ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Oil King features a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Additionally, the Oil King's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of transparency for RGB lighting.
Both switches share a commonality in their housing materials for the bottom housing. Both the Berry and the Oil King utilize nylon for the bottom housing. As a result, both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. However, the Berry's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a duller and rounder overall sound, while the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch is split between the top and bottom housings. Pressing down on either switch will primarily showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Berry and the Oil King may have different housing materials, the resulting sound profiles can be similar depending on the specific switch and its usage.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Kailh Berry is not stated, while the Gateron Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Kailh Berry at 70 grams and the Gateron Oil King at 65 grams.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of the Gateron Oil King may be preferred by individuals who need to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. This lighter actuation force allows for quicker and more effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Kailh Berry with its higher bottom out force. These individuals appreciate a stronger push feel, which can provide a greater sense of satisfaction and accuracy while typing.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Kailh Berry is unknown, both switches have medium-heavy bottom out forces. The Gateron Oil King offers a lighter actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming, while the Kailh Berry provides a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Oil King has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. The Oil King falls closer to the traditional travel distance, while the Berry is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. So, if you prioritize quickness and responsiveness, the Berry may be the better choice. However, some people find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the Oil King with its longer travel distance may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50.
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
The Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its hefty typing experience and springy feel. When typing on these switches, users will notice a chalk-like texture. In terms of sound, the Berry switches have a fairly deep and low-pitched profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses.
On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is highly regarded for its buttery smoothness. Typing on these switches gives a sensation similar to gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly, like melting into each keystroke. The sound profile of the Oil King switches is reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, providing a deep and rich tone.
From the available information, both switches have similar low-pitched and bassy sound profiles. However, the Kailh Berry switch offers a textured feel, while the Gateron Oil King switch provides a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience.
In conclusion, if you prefer a linear switch with a hefty and springy feel, as well as a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry switch is a great choice. However, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, with a sound profile resembling the snap of a dark chocolate bar, the Gateron Oil King switch is an excellent option. Both switches offer deep and low-pitched sound profiles, but the feel is where they differ. Depending on your personal preference, you can achieve similar results in sound by adjusting other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a firm and springy typing experience, the Kailh Berry linear switch is a great choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, you can expect a satisfying and hefty feel when typing. The Berry switch also offers a deep sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams, the Oil King switch provides a smoother typing experience. It is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. Both the Berry and Oil King switches have a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, adding depth and richness to each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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