Gateron CM vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts have a wide range of options to choose from. Two popular choices are the Gateron CM and the Gateron Oil King, both of which are linear switches. The CM is known for its bold departure from convention by featuring a full nylon housing instead of polycarbonate. This unique design not only delivers a richer and deeper sound signature but also promises an effortlessly smooth typing journey, akin to gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened, dual-staged spring of the CM switch provides a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King excels with its buttery smoothness and sound profile evocative of snapping a dark chocolate bar. Both switches offer qualities such as low-pitched and creamy characteristics, but each has its own unique qualities. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Gateron Oil King switches are both made of nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound production.
However, there is a difference in the bottom housing material between the two switches. The CM switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Oil King switch features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing in the CM switch contributes to the overall sound profile, emphasizing the deeper and fuller tones. It affects the bottom-out sound when pressing down on a key, creating a more satisfying sound and feel.
In contrast, the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing has its own distinct characteristics. It is known for producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile without being excessively sharp. This results in a thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. Therefore, when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing material of the Oil King switch will provide a different typing experience compared to the CM switch.
In summary, both the Gateron CM and Oil King switches share a nylon top housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the CM switch has a nylon bottom housing, while the Oil King switch utilizes Gateron's INK blend bottom housing. This leads to a difference in the sound produced when pressing down on a key. The CM switch offers a more satisfying and rounded sound, while the Oil King switch produces a higher-pitched and clacky sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 55 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This similarity ensures that users will get comparable results in terms of the initial response of the keys.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a slight variation between the two switches. The Gateron CM linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Oil King switch requires a slightly heavier force to fully press the keys compared to the CM switch.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for different individuals. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may find the Gateron CM linear switch more suitable. This lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for office work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might gravitate towards the Gateron Oil King linear switch. The slightly heavier bottom out force of the Oil King switch provides a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have the same actuation force, the Oil King switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the CM switch is closer to the more shallow end of the traditional travel distance spectrum, while the 4 mm travel distance of the Oil King switch is closer to the typical 4.0 mm mark. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances like the CM switch. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key feel may lean towards the Oil King switch with its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth. However, it is important to note that both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slight differences in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
The Gateron CM linear switch is best known for its full nylon housing, which provides a richer and deeper sound signature compared to conventionally used polycarbonate housings. These switches also come with an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring an effortlessly smooth typing experience. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing sensation. In terms of sound, the CM switches are described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, delivering a deep and satisfying sound profile characterized by lower frequencies. The feel of the CM switches is often referred to as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, resulting in a seamless, smooth, and uniform typing sensation.
The Gateron Oil King linear switch stands out for its buttery smoothness and sound profile reminiscent of a snap from a dark chocolate bar. Although specific details about its construction are not provided, it can be inferred that the Oil King switches offer a similar level of smoothness and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. In terms of sound, the Oil King switches exhibit the same characteristics as the CM switches, being described as low-pitched and bassy.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, both switches offer similar experiences in terms of sound and feel. The CM switches provide a rich and deep sound profile with their full nylon housing, while the Oil King switches offer a buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound. Both switches are described as buttery and creamy, indicating a smooth and effortless typing experience. Therefore, if you choose either the CM or Oil King switches, you can expect comparable results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. The CM switch offers a bouncy typing experience with a richer and deeper sound profile. It is characterized by a bassy and thocky sound, providing a satisfying depth during key presses. The CM switch also provides a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, with smooth and effortless keystrokes due to its impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the Oil King switch offers a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, with a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone. It provides a creamy and silky typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance. Ultimately, your choice between the CM and Oil King switches depends on whether you prefer a gliding and bouncy typing experience with a rich sound (CM) or a smooth and silky typing experience with a low-pitched sound (Oil King). Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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