Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and Gateron Oil King (V2) each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Glory Yellow, known for its heavier actuation force and smooth keystroke, provides an enjoyable typing experience with a satisfying travel distance—making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a more tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Oil King (V2) stands out with its remarkable buttery smoothness and a sound profile that evokes the delightful snap of dark chocolate. This switch is ideal for those who favor a plush, low-pitched, and silky feel while typing, enhancing overall comfort during long writing sessions. Both switches offer unique advantages, whether you lean towards the solid, deliberate feedback of the Glory Yellow or the creamy, polished touch of the Oil King (V2). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Oil King (V2), a prominent similarity lies in their top housings, both crafted from nylon. Nylon is known for its sound-dampening properties, and in both switches, this material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a rounder, more dulcet auditory experience. This shared characteristic indicates that users can expect a similar acoustic quality when pressing down on either switch, particularly during the key release, which is primarily influenced by the top housing.
However, the differences between the two switches become pronounced when examining their bottom housings. The Glory Yellow features a nylon bottom housing that continues the theme of sound absorption, ensuring a cohesive and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which produces a markedly different auditory experience. The INK blend is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, leading to a clackier typing experience compared to the fuller sound generated by the Glory Yellow. Thus, while both switches benefit from the characteristics of nylon at the top, the bottom housing of the Oil King (V2) introduces a distinct sound signature that dramatically influences the overall typing experience.
The result of these differences in bottom housings means that the typing experience with these two switches can vary significantly. For the Glory Yellow, users can expect a consistent sound profile from top to bottom, creating a harmonious typing experience characterized by subdued sounds. Conversely, the Oil King (V2) offers a more dynamic auditory profile, with the distinction of the higher-pitched clack emanating from the INK blend bottom housing. Consequently, while both models will share a similar deep and full auditory essence due to their nylon tops, the experience diverges when typing, resulting in unique sound signatures despite their homologous beginnings.
Weight
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch present distinct differences in their actuation forces, which may influence user preference based on typing experience. The Glory Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who favor ease and comfort during extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial push feel. Although the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown, the Oil King's bottom out force is defined at 65 grams, which places it in the medium-heavy category. This means that while the Glory Yellow is undeniably the lighter option, the Oil King (V2) provides a heavier tactile experience. For users looking for a keyboard that balances comfort and feedback, the choice between these two switches will largely depend on individual preferences for weight and actuation feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This identical travel distance means that users will experience a similar keypress feel when using either switch, resulting in comparable results regarding responsiveness and actuation. Since both switches offer the same amount of key travel, users can expect a consistent performance in terms of keystroke depth, allowing for a seamless transition between the two if desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch has not been explicitly described; however, linear switches are generally known for producing a quieter operation compared to clicky or tactile switches, which may suggest a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) boasts a low-pitched and bassy sound, creating a rich and mellow auditory experience that some liken to the snapping of a dark chocolate bar. This deep resonant quality can be quite satisfying, making it a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a more immersive typing experience. Overall, while the Glory Yellow may offer a quieter performance, the Oil King (V2) provides a more distinct and pleasurable sound that many users find appealing.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow is noted for its smooth keystroke and pleasant travel distance, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. The Oil King (V2), in contrast, elevates this tactile experience with descriptors such as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. This suggests that the Oil King (V2) offers an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, likely enhanced by factory lubrication and high-quality materials. The sensation when typing on the Oil King (V2) is one of gliding effortlessly over the keys, with minimal resistance, thus providing a more luxurious feel compared to the Glory Yellow.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch may offer a pleasant and smooth typing experience, the Gateron Oil King (V2) excels in both sound and feel, providing a richer auditory profile and an extraordinarily smooth keystroke. If you're looking for a switch that balances enjoyable sound with an exquisite tactile response, the Oil King (V2) is a prominent choice. If you prefer a quieter but still satisfying experience, the Glory Yellow may suit you just as well to achieve a comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re someone who enjoys a smooth keystroke and a lighter touch, the Glory Yellow is an excellent choice for you. Its design allows for effortless key presses, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, where speed and comfort are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a satisfying bottom-out force, the Oil King (V2) will likely suit you better. Its medium-heavy resistance provides a grounded typing experience, while its creamy and silky feel, combined with the low-pitched, bassy sound profile, creates an exceptionally enjoyable atmosphere for both typing and gaming. Therefore, if you value a rich auditory experience alongside smooth operation, the Oil King (V2) stands out as the premium pick. By understanding your preferences for sound, feel, and force sensitivity, you can confidently choose the switch that will make your mechanical keyboard experience truly enjoyable.
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