Bsun Pine vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Oil King offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility that is favored by many users. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King is a linear switch beloved for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile akin to snapping a dark chocolate bar. Each switch is categorized differently, with the Pine being described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', while the Oil King is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Bassy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them desirable options for different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the Gateron Oil King both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Pine featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Oil King has a nylon top housing and a proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Pine's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Oil King elicits a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Pine is ideal for RGB lighting, while the Oil King's nylon top housing offers a classic look.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ, with the Pine utilizing nylon for its bottom housing and the Oil King featuring the proprietary INK blend by Gateron. The nylon bottom housing of the Pine contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Oil King produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. The qualities of these bottom housing materials will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Oil King have their own distinct qualities, the top and bottom housings play unique roles in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. Despite the differences in materials used, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality. Whether you prefer the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer their own unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, we find that the Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Oil King's 55 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in this aspect. This means that the Pine will feel lighter to press initially, but both will require the same amount of force to fully press down. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Pine for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the stronger push feel of the Oil King for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Oil King linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Oil King's longer travel distance could provide a more substantial keystroke feeling. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the Pine catering to those who prefer a quicker keystroke and the Oil King catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Bsun Pine tactile switch is known for its distinct click and sharp, high-pitched tone. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound profile, providing a more mellow and rich auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Pine switch may be better suited for those who enjoy a crisp and direct sound feedback, while the Oil King switch could appeal to individuals seeking a smoother and deeper tone during typing.
Moving on to the tactile feel, the Bsun Pine switch is characterized by an invigorating and sharp tactile bump, offering a pronounced feedback and a snappy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a creamy and silky typing experience, with a smooth and buttery feel when pressing down the keys. While the Pine switch emphasizes a strong and distinct tactile response, the Oil King switch focuses on delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation, catering to users who prioritize smoothness and fluidity in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Bsun Pine tactile switch excels in providing a sharp tactile feedback and a high-pitched sound profile, ideal for users who prefer a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a smooth and buttery feel with a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound, catering to those who seek a more relaxed and rich typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with clear-cut feedback and fast action, then the Pine switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a sound profile reminiscent of snapping dark chocolate, then the Oil King switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize direct tactility or silky smoothness in your keyboard switches. Choose wisely based on your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
