Bsun Light Sakura vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Light Sakura and Gateron Oil King (V2) stand out as remarkable linear options, each catering to different preferences and needs. The Bsun Light Sakura is celebrated for its silent operation and ultra-light feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and discretion, especially in bustling office environments or shared spaces. Its gentle feedback is designed to provide a fatigue-reducing typing experience over long sessions, appealing to users who favor a more subtle touch. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is renowned for its buttery smoothness and a low-pitched sound profile reminiscent of snapping dark chocolate, which adds a touch of tactile enjoyment to every keystroke. While the Oil King (V2) leans towards a more auditory experience with its creamy and silky characteristics, the Light Sakura emphasizes a soft and quiet typing feel. Ultimately, both switches have their own distinct advantages: the former perfect for those seeking a serene typing environment and the latter for enthusiasts who revel in a lush tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and environment.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Oil King (V2) differ significantly in the materials used for their top housings, which leads to distinctive auditory experiences when typing. The Light Sakura features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and clarity, producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This choice of material not only accentuates the crispness of each keypress but also benefits RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) boasts a nylon top housing, a classic material recognized for its softer qualities that absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Thus, the combination of these materials sets the tone for how each switch performs in terms of sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize materials that contribute to their distinct profiles, albeit in different ways. The Light Sakura’s bottom housing also employs polycarbonate, reinforcing the crisp and resonant sound intended in its design. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) uses a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which provides a pointed and higher-pitched sound, often described as satisfying and clacky. Although both switches incorporate different materials for bottom housing, it's important to note that each has an impact on the overall experience differently: while the polycarbonate maintains that sharpness, the INK blend introduces a distinctive clack that adds character to the Oil King (V2).
Ultimately, the differing housing materials combine with their respective designs to create unique typing experiences, though there are fundamental similarities in how they achieve high-pitched sounds. For users who prefer a crisper, clearer sound profile, the Light Sakura's polycarbonate housing can deliver a satisfying performance, while the Oil King (V2), with its nylon and proprietary INK blend, offers a more rounded and fuller auditory experience. Despite these differences, the principles of sound performance based on housing materials remain consistent: the top housing predominantly influences the release sound, and the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out experience. As a result, enthusiasts can appreciate that both switches will yield enjoyable results, albeit through different auditory mechanisms rooted in their choice of materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, notable differences can be observed in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Sakura features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, categorizing it as a light switch, ideal for prolonged typing sessions and gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) has a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. This heavier resistance provides a more substantial feel, which some typists and gamers may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Consequently, those seeking a lighter touch will find the Light Sakura to be more suitable, while those who enjoy a stronger push should opt for the Oil King (V2). Overall, the choice between the two switches lies in personal preference, balancing between comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Light Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Oil King (V2) extends to 4.0 mm. This makes the Light Sakura the shorter of the two switches, potentially appealing to gamers who favor faster response times due to its reduced travel distance. On the other hand, the Oil King (V2) offers a longer travel distance, which might be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial feel and depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize enhanced responsiveness with the shorter travel of the Light Sakura or a more pronounced key feel with the longer travel of the Oil King (V2).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 Bsun Light Sakura switch offers a silent typing experience, making it an ideal choice for those in shared spaces or quiet environments. This quiet operation allows for a distraction-free atmosphere during extended usage, which is vital in offices or libraries. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) presents a sound profile that is notably low-pitched and bassy, reminiscent of a satisfying, mellow tone. This rich auditory feedback, akin to the sound of a dark chocolate bar snapping, provides a unique auditory experience that some users find pleasurable. While both switches cater to different needs—one opting for discretion and the other for a more resonant sound—it's essential to note that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Light Sakura switch prioritizes an ultra-light and gentle typing experience, perfect for reducing fatigue over long typing sessions. However, the specific tactile feedback of this switch is not elaborated. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) showcases a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished sensation, translating into an exceptionally smooth typing journey. The factory lubricant and materials used in the Oil King contribute to this delightful typing experience, allowing for an effortless gliding motion as fingers transition across its keys. The smoothness provided by the Oil King could appeal to those who relish a refined touch, in contrast to the more generalized comfort focus of the Light Sakura.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different user preferences: the Bsun Light Sakura emphasizes a quiet, comfort-oriented typing experience, making it suitable for discreet environments, while the Gateron Oil King (V2) thrives on auditory satisfaction and unparalleled smoothness, appealing to those who enjoy a richer typing feel. Depending on your priorities—whether it's a silent typing environment or an engaging auditory feedback experience—you can achieve remarkable results with either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize a lightweight feel and seek a switch that allows for long hours of typing without causing finger fatigue, then the Light Sakura is your best option. Its quiet operation makes it particularly suitable for office settings or shared environments where noise can be a concern. On the other hand, if you desire a switch with a more substantial feel and enjoy a rich, low-pitched sound profile reminiscent of snapping chocolate, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is the way to go. This switch offers a creamy and buttery typing experience, perfect for those who appreciate a solid keystroke and a satisfying auditory feedback. In essence, choose the Light Sakura for a delicate and silent experience, and the Oil King (V2) for a deeper, more pronounced typing sensation. Each switch has its unique strengths, tailoring to different typing styles and environments, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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