TKC Kiwi vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TKC Kiwi and the Gateron Oil King offer distinct options for users with varying preferences. The TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch renowned for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. With a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi delivers an immersive typing experience. Additionally, its lightweight factory lube ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King stands out as a linear switch choice. Known for its buttery smoothness, the Oil King offers a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. The Oil King's low-pitched and silky characteristics contribute to an enjoyable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the Gateron Oil King differ in their choice of housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which provides a bright sound signature. This material produces resonant clacks when typing, giving a satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. With its relatively softer plastic, the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
Moving to the bottom housing, the Kiwi employs a UHWMPE material, similar to its top housing. This choice contributes to the switch's bright sound signature, creating resonant clacks when typing. On the other hand, the Oil King relies on Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing. This blend delivers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, characterized as clacky. The INK blend provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, offering a unique typing experience.
While the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Gateron Oil King differ, their impact on the typing experience is similar. If the top and bottom housing are the same for a switch, the qualities of the housing materials are evenly distributed. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing primarily affects the sound when the key is released. Therefore, both switches provide distinct auditory feedback throughout the typing process, enhancing the user's experience.
In summary, the TKC Kiwi and Gateron Oil King exhibit contrasting housing materials, resulting in diverse sound profiles. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housing contribute to its bright and resonant clacky sound signature, while the Oil King's nylon top and INK blend bottom housing provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, described as clacky as well. Nevertheless, both switches offer an enhanced typing experience due to the unique qualities associated with their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Kiwi requires a lighter touch with a force of 43 grams, while the Oil King requires a slightly heavier force of 55 grams. This means that the Kiwi switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the Oil King switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Moving on to the bottom out force, both switches have relatively similar forces. The Kiwi switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Oil King switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that both switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience when it comes to bottoming out. This similarity suggests that users can expect similar results in terms of the resistance they feel when pressing the keys all the way down.
Overall, the Kiwi switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Oil King switch, while both switches offer a similar medium-heavy bottom out force. The individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience will ultimately determine which switch is more suitable for their needs.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from top to bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying feedback during typing or gaming experiences. Whether you choose the TKC Kiwi or the Gateron Oil King, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, 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, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch are described as having a low-pitched sound profile. However, the Kiwi switch is also said to have a neutral sound, which makes it suitable for a variety of purposes and users. On the other hand, the Oil King switch is described as having a bassy sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience. Stepped switches have two stages of tactility and can provide a mild bump sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Accented switches, on the other hand, offer a medium tactile experience without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is described as polished, resulting in reduced friction and a smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Oil King switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These descriptors indicate a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with exceptional smoothness and minimal resistance. Similarly to the Kiwi switch, the Oil King switch is also described as polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer subjective qualities that enhance the typing experience. The Kiwi switch provides a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, while the Oil King switch offers a sound reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. In terms of feel, the Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience with a polished finish for reduced friction, while the Oil King switch provides a creamy, silky, and buttery feel. While they have different characteristics, both switches have qualities that can result in a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, either switch can provide similar results.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, and delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, then the TKC Kiwi would be an excellent choice for you. These switches are lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. The Kiwi also offers a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that offers buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, then the Gateron Oil King is the switch for you. These switches provide a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, adding depth and richness to your typing experience. The Oil King also offers creamy, silky, and buttery feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and sound. If you value a pronounced bump and a snappy sound, the TKC Kiwi is the way to go. However, if you prioritize smoothness and a deep, rich sound, then the Gateron Oil King is the switch to choose. Both switches offer polished finishes, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Consider your typing style and desired typing experience to make the best decision for you.
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