Durock Light Tactile vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboards offer a vast range of switch options, each with its own distinct characteristics. Two popular choices among enthusiasts are the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Oil King switches. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a welcome departure from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches delivers an angelic tactility, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Oil King switches from Gateron have gained a reputation for their buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. Their low-pitched, creamy, and silky characteristics make for a satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can choose the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Oil King differ significantly. The Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Oil King employs a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials serve their purposes well, the Light Tactile is better suited for those seeking a clear and resonant sound, while the Oil King offers a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Light Tactile and the Oil King make use of different materials that impact the sound produced and the overall typing experience. The Light Tactile uses a nylon bottom housing, which, similar to its top counterpart, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound in the bottom-out phase of typing. On the other hand, the Oil King features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. This unique blend results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. While the Light Tactile provides a softer and more absorptive typing experience, the Oil King delivers a thinner and higher-pitched sound profile.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch contribute differently to the sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. In the comparison between the Light Tactile and the Oil King, the differences in housing materials highlight distinct qualities that will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. Therefore, users can expect a clear and resonant sound with the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing, while the Oil King's nylon top and INK blend bottom housing will provide a deeper and clacky sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. These slight differences in force may not be noticeable to some users, resulting in similar results in terms of typing experience.
Weight can be an important factor to consider when choosing a switch. For those who prefer a lighter switch, it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, in which case they may opt for options with heavier forces.
In conclusion, while the Light Tactile and Oil King switches have slightly different actuation and bottom out forces, both fall into the medium-heavy range. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a consistent tactile experience with an equal amount of travel. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance traveled when using either the Durock Light Tactile or the Gateron Oil King switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral profile. This means that it has a moderate sound and actuation force requirement, making it suitable for both beginners and more advanced users, as well as for use at home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. This means that it offers a more mellow and rich tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness of bass tones. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Oil King switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with an exceptionally smooth typing feel, minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, and a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Like the Light Tactile, the Oil King switch is also described as polished, indicating a sleek and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature, providing an angelic and unique typing experience. It offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. It provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, along with a variety of smooth and polished feel descriptors. While the switches may have slightly different qualities, they both offer enjoyable and high-quality experiences. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can expect similar results in terms of satisfaction and performance from these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch is the way to go. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. This switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, making it versatile for any typing environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth linear switch with a low-pitched and bassy sound, the Gateron Oil King switch is a great choice. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams, this switch offers a silky typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference, whether you prioritize the gentle tactility of the Light Tactile or the smooth linearity of the Oil King.
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