Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Oil King, both of which are linear switches. The Crystal switches are known for their unique typing experience, combining a fairly elastic feel with a medium-light weight. When using these switches, users can expect a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Oil King switches are highly regarded for their buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. With its low-pitched and creamy characteristics, it provides a satisfying typing experience. 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
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Oil King switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates well, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Oil King features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. This can offer a different typing experience, especially for those who prefer a deeper sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Crystal and Oil King switches, they both have unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal provides a sharper and crisper sound when the key is released. Conversely, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Oil King produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This characteristic thin and clacky sound is often described as satisfying. As a result, the top and bottom housings each have their own impact on the sound and feel when typing on these switches.
Despite their differences, the Crystal and Oil King switches can deliver similar results when it comes to certain aspects. For example, both switches have a higher-pitched sound profile to some extent, although the Crystal leans towards a sharper and crisper sound, while the Oil King offers a pointed and clacky sound. Additionally, both switches have distinct aesthetics due to their housing materials. The Crystal's polycarbonate allows for a translucent appearance, making it suitable for RGB lighting, while the Oil King's nylon provides a classic look. Ultimately, individuals with different preferences for sound and aesthetics can choose between the Crystal and Oil King switches based on their personal typing experience and desired visual appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their weights. The Crystal switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience or engage in long gaming sessions. Similarly, its bottom out force of 55 grams falls within the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Oil King switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Its bottom out force of 65 grams also falls within the medium-heavy range. Therefore, those who prefer a more robust typing sensation may find the Oil King switch more suitable. It is important to consider personal preferences when deciding between these two switches, as the lighter Crystal switch offers a longer typing endurance, while the heavier Oil King switch provides a more substantial keystroke feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which determines the feeling when the key is pressed down. Both switches provide a consistent 4 mm travel distance, ensuring a similar experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique acoustic signature. It has a slightly chirpy sound, adding a distinctive character to the typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal switch produces a high-pitched sound, which gives it a sharp and crisp tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also has a bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Overall, both switches offer different sound profiles to cater to individual preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch provides a polished typing experience. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch offers a sleek and polished sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience. It feels smooth and buttery, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. This switch minimizes resistance and provides an exceptionally smooth typing feel. Both switches offer a refined and smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall comfort and ease of use.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch has a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, along with a polished typing experience. Meanwhile, the Oil King switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, coupled with a creamy and silky typing experience. It's crucial to consider these subjective qualities and choose the switch that aligns with your sound and feel preferences. With either switch, you can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a unique, linear typing experience, then the Crystal switches would be a good choice for you. These switches provide a fairly elastic feel and have a medium-light weight, resulting in a distinct typing sensation. Additionally, the Crystal switches offer a neutral sound profile when typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth and buttery typing experience, then the Oil King switches would be more suitable for you. These switches are known for their buttery smoothness and produce a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. The Oil King switches offer a lower bottom out force compared to the Crystal switches, providing a slightly heavier typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Crystal switches have a chirpy and high-pitched sound, which can be a unique acoustic signature if you prefer a lighter and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Oil King switches have a low-pitched and bassy sound, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses.
When it comes to the feel, the Crystal switches are described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King switches are described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In the end, the choice between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider what characteristics are important to you and make a decision based on your preferences.
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