Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's essential to consider the distinct characteristics that each type offers, as they can significantly affect your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky nature, providing users with crisp tactile feedback and a satisfying audible click that many typists cherish for its engagement and clarity. This makes it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced, interactive feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) represents a different end of the spectrum with its linear design. These switches are renowned for their buttery smoothness, delivering a typing experience that is not only low-pitched and creamy but also reminiscent of the satisfying snap of dark chocolate. The smoothness makes them a perfect fit for those who prefer a quieter and more fluid keystroke, especially in environments where noise can be distracting. Each switch has unique attributes that cater to varied preferences, making the decision between them a matter of personal taste. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Oil King (V2) present a fascinating study in contrast, particularly in their impact on sound and feel during use. The Box White V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's characteristics as a stiffer plastic, allowing for a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) features a nylon top housing, traditionally known for yielding a deeper, fuller sound. This difference in housing material fundamentally colors the auditory feedback each switch provides, with the Box White V2 leaning toward a more crisp and bright tone, while the Oil King (V2) creates a more muted, rounded sound profile.
When examining the bottom housings, one finds a mix of similarities and differences that further define the character of each switch. The Box White V2 employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its softer characteristics that absorb sound and contribute to a fuller typing experience. Conversely, the Oil King (V2) utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its lower housing, which although still capable of producing high-pitched sounds, is designed to offer a distinct clacky quality. While both switches share the commonality of using nylon, the unique composite of Gateron's INK blend introduces a more pronounced pitch, resulting in a sound profile that stands apart from the classic softness of the Box White V2's nylon base.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in both switches results in a unique auditory experience. For the Box White V2, the interaction between the clear polycarbonate top and the nylon bottom creates a lively and engaging sound, with the sharper tones being more pronounced during key releases, while the deeper tones come into play during key presses. Conversely, the Oil King (V2) benefits from the interplay of its nylon top housing’s muffled softness and its INK blend bottom housing’s clacking response, creating a distinctive auditory footprint. Thus, even though the materials differ, both switches can achieve satisfying auditory results tailored to different user preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours of work or gaming. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a firmer feel that some typists may find more satisfying. Thus, those who appreciate a substantial push feel might opt for the heavier Gateron switch, whereas individuals seeking a lighter touch would gravitate towards the Kailh Box White V2. The differences in these forces highlight the distinct tactile experiences each switch provides, catering to varying user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, we observe that the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Oil King (V2) features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Box White V2 offers a shorter travel distance, which may be preferable for gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter switches often facilitate quicker actuation. Conversely, the Oil King (V2) might appeal more to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience due to its longer travel distance, providing a deeper sensation when typing. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should reflect your personal preference for either responsiveness or depth in keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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 Kailh Box White V2 switch is characterized by its crisp, tactile click and pronounced audible feedback, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy the classic sound profile of clicky switches. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) presents a more subdued auditory experience, marked by a low-pitched and bassy tone. This results in a sound that is reminiscent of the satisfying snap of a dark chocolate bar, offering a smoother and richer audio experience compared to the sharp clicks of the Box White V2. Therefore, if sound is a significant factor in your keyboard experience, these two switches offer distinctly different profiles that cater to varied preferences.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 delivers a tactile sensation that many typists find satisfying, though specific feedback on the subjective experience isn't provided. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) excels with its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. This smooth key travel is likely enhanced by factory lubrication and specific materials used in the switch construction, resulting in a typing sensation that glides with ease and minimal resistance. For those who favor a fluid and effortless feel when typing, the Oil King (V2) will likely deliver a more enjoyable experience than the Box White V2.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Oil King (V2) are two distinct switches that cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Box White V2 offers a crisp and clicky sound, appealing to those who enjoy an audible typing experience, while the Oil King (V2) provides a smoother and richer sound with a buttery feel that draws users in with its polished touch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound feedback or a smooth typing experience, as each offers unique qualities that can significantly influence your overall keyboard enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you desire from your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a light and responsive feel paired with distinct tactile feedback and a sharp audible click, then the Kailh Box White V2 is likely the right choice for you. This switch is perfect for typists who thrive on the satisfaction of each keystroke, especially in a work or gaming environment where that clicky sound enhances the overall enjoyment of typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more subdued typing experience, you may find the Gateron Oil King (V2) to be more to your liking. With its medium-heavy actuation force and creamy, silky feel, this switch allows for effortless key presses that glide seamlessly, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where precision and comfort are paramount. The bassy low-pitched sound of the Oil King adds a rich auditory layer, enhancing your overall typing experience without the distraction of sharp clicks. Consider what aspects are most important to you—feedback, sound, or smoothness—as you make your decision between these two excellent switches.
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