HMX Deep Navy vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Oil King (V2) present compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts. The Deep Navy switch stands out for its full nylon construction, delivering a rich, sharp sound profile that pairs beautifully with its silky smooth keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback and build quality. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) boasts a unique buttery smoothness and a sound profile akin to a dark chocolate bar snapping, which offers a delightfully tactile experience for users seeking a creamy and polished feel in their typing. While both switches are linear, providing smooth key presses without tactile bumps, their distinct sound profiles and material constructions cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Oil King (V2), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top housings. This shared material choice results in a similar typing experience for each switch. Nylon, known for its soft and flexible properties, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The absorption characteristics of nylon minimize sound reflections, creating a rounder and more muted auditory experience. Thus, users can expect a similar acoustic feel when typing on either switch, highlighting the effectiveness of nylon in delivering a satisfying sound.
However, the bottom housing of the two switches significantly diverges, which creates distinct differences in their overall sound profiles and performance. The HMX Deep Navy maintains uniformity in material with a nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the softer acoustic qualities throughout the full switch assembly. This consistency ensures that the deep sound profile remains intact, allowing for a cohesive typing experience characterized by warmth and depth. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) features a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which is designed to produce a more pointed and high-pitched sound. This blend introduces a clacky element to the typing experience, giving users a contrasting auditory feedback based on the switch’s lower section.
As a result, while both switches share nylon for their top housing, the differences in the bottom housing material make a significant impact on the overall feel and sound. The HMX Deep Navy prioritizes a full and muted sound throughout, where both the top and bottom complement each other seamlessly. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) presents a more dynamic auditory experience with a clacking sound that appeals to users who appreciate a sharper feedback. Ultimately, these differences underscore how key switching materials can enhance or alter the typing experience depending on their placement within the switch architecture.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel. As such, the Deep Navy is the lighter option, while the Oil King (V2) is the heavier switch. This difference means that users can expect a distinctly different typing experience based on their preferences, with the Deep Navy offering a softer, more effortless keystroke, while the Oil King provides a firmer resistance for a more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Oil King (V2) measures 4 mm. This indicates that the Oil King (V2) offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when pressing the key, appealing to those who prefer a hearty depth in their switches. In contrast, the Deep Navy's shorter travel distance suggests a more responsive experience, which could be ideal for gamers looking for quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference: the Oil King (V2) caters to those who appreciate a deeper keypress, while the Deep Navy is suited for users who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 HMX Deep Navy linear switch provides a rich and sharp auditory experience, thanks to its full nylon construction. This type of design typically contributes to a more pronounced and crisp sound when typing, but specifics about its pitch and tone remain somewhat vague. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is characterized by a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. Its auditory experience is deep and rich, akin to the satisfying snap of dark chocolate. This mellow tone creates a more subdued and pleasant resonance when typing, making it an appealing option for users who prefer a lower frequency sound.
In terms of tactile feel, the HMX Deep Navy's characteristics remain undetailed; however, it is safe to assume it shares some qualities with other linear switches, likely offering a smooth keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Oil King (V2) excels in providing a creamy, silky, and buttery feel during use. This switch is designed to offer a seamless and polished typing experience with minimal friction, making it incredibly satisfying to type on. The lubricant used in the Oil King (V2) enhances its smoothness, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Oil King (V2) are linear switches likely aimed at providing a smooth typing experience, they diverge in their sound profiles and specific tactile feels. The Deep Navy is known for its richer sound, though its tactile qualities remain unspecified. Meanwhile, the Oil King (V2) is celebrated for its smooth and buttery tactile feedback along with a pleasingly low-pitched sound. Therefore, if you seek a linear switch with a more pronounced sound, the Deep Navy may be the way to go, while the Oil King (V2) would be ideal for those leaning towards silky smoothness and a deeper auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, it's essential to consider your personal typing preferences and use case. You might opt for the Deep Navy if you're looking for a lighter switch that offers a silky smooth feel and a unique, rich sound profile. This makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or if you enjoy a more relaxed typing style without heavy resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and tactile experience with a medium-heavy force that demands a bit more effort while typing, the Oil King (V2) would be the better choice. Its creamy and buttery smoothness coupled with a low-pitched, bassy sound provides a satisfying and luxurious typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. Ultimately, both switches have their distinct advantages, and your choice will largely depend on whether you prioritize a lighter feel with acoustic richness or a more robust, velvety typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force.
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