Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a smooth typing experience while also minimizing noise, two popular options to consider are the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Oil King. The Honey Bean switches are loved for their light and linear action, making typing a delight without disturbing those around you with their silent operation. On the other hand, the Oil King switches are praised for their buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile, providing a luxurious typing experience akin to dark chocolate snapping. Both switches offer different qualities that cater to specific preferences and environments. 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Oil King switches are quite different, each offering unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The Honey Bean utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound that creates a pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King features a nylon top housing and a proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the INK blend bottom housing produces a higher-pitched and slightly clacky sound that many find satisfying.
While the POM top and bottom housings of the Honey Bean switches create a consistent and pleasing sound profile throughout typing, the Gateron Oil King switches offer a more dynamic experience with their combination of nylon and INK blend materials. The softer nature of the nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a dulled and rounder sound compared to the Honey Bean's POM housing. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Oil King switches adds a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that can be described as clacky, providing a unique typing experience that contrasts with the deeper sound of the Honey Bean switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Oil King switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While the POM housing of the Honey Bean creates a consistent and muted sound, the combination of nylon and INK blend materials in the Oil King switches offers a more varied and dynamic typing sensation. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted sound or a higher-pitched and clacky typing experience, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that the Honey Bean is lighter in terms of actuation force at 42 grams, while the Oil King is heavier at 55 grams. The Honey Bean's bottom out force is unknown, while the Oil King has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a more lightweight typing experience may opt for the Honey Bean, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Oil King due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer different levels of force that cater to varying preferences, allowing users to choose based on their personal typing needs.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Honey Bean has a shorter travel distance compared to the Oil King. The 3.7 mm distance of the Honey Bean falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, which is preferred by many gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Oil King offers a slightly deeper and more traditional press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Overall, both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to users with varying preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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
In terms of sound, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch offers a muted and softer typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter option in shared spaces. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, similar to the deep richness of snapping a dark chocolate bar. Depending on your preference, the Honey Bean will provide a more discreet typing experience, while the Oil King will offer a more melodic and satisfying sound.
Moving on to feel, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery actuation, making typing effortless and comfortable with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing sensation, but the Honey Bean focuses more on light actuation force, while the Oil King emphasizes smoothness and lubricant application.
In conclusion, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a lighter touch, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a more melodic and buttery typing feel with a smooth finish, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is the way to go. Despite their differences in sound and feel, both switches prioritize a pleasant and satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of overall quality.
Conclusion
To sum up, in deciding between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using them. If you prioritize a silent typing experience and want switches that are light to press with minimal force required, the Honey Bean switches are the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King switches would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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