KTT Lightning vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Oil King both offer unique features and qualities to enhance your typing and gaming experience. The KTT Lightning is a linear switch that is popular for its "speed" characteristics, making it an excellent choice for those who value quick responsiveness. With a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switches deliver a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King is also a linear switch that stands out for its buttery smoothness and unique sound profile, reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. With a low-pitched and creamy sound, these switches provide a luxurious feel while typing. Both switches have a polished finish and offer their distinct qualities, providing a range of options to suit different preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision regarding which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Oil King switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Lightning's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Oil King's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Lightning and the Oil King switches differ in sound profile. The Lightning's nylon bottom housing, like its top housing, elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This unique blend creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound often described as clacky.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. Whether using the KTT Lightning or the Gateron Oil King, the combination of different housing materials will undoubtedly result in a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences between the two. The Lightning switch has a relatively lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Oil King switch requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lightning switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation force allows for easier keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who value a more robust and substantial typing feel may opt for the Oil King switch due to its heavier forces. The stronger push required by the Oil King switch provides a tactile feedback that some users find satisfying and comforting.
Considering weight is crucial in selecting the right switch for one's needs. The weight of a switch directly affects the typing experience, and different individuals may have varying preferences. Some may prioritize a lighter switch to prevent fatigue during long typing sessions, while others may seek a heavier switch to enhance the tactile feedback. Ultimately, both the KTT Lightning switch and the Gateron Oil King switch cater to different preferences, providing users with options to suit their specific typing requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is clear that they have differing distances. The Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the Oil King has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0mm distance of the Oil King is considered more traditional, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Lightning's 3.0mm travel distance is more shallow and is preferred by gamers who seek faster response times. If responsiveness is your priority, the Lightning would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a deeper feel, the Oil King is the suitable option. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, 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, the KTT Lightning linear switch provides a clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched sound. This switch has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Lightning switch providing a clacky sound and the Oil King switch offering a more low-pitched and rich sound. Depending on personal preference, one can choose the switch that suits their auditory preferences.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch offers a subtle typing experience. It has a gentle resistance that is not feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the switch provides a polished and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King switch offers a creamy and silky typing sensation. This switch is known for its smooth and buttery feel, similar to gliding fingers across the keys effortlessly. It minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience. Both switches provide a polished and refined finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the KTT Lightning linear switch is best known for its approachable "speed" switch characteristics, making it ideal for situations where milliseconds can determine success or failure. It delivers a slick and clacky typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch stands out as one of the favorite linear switches due to its buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile reminiscent of a snapping dark chocolate bar. This switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience.
In terms of sound, one can expect a clacky sound from the Lightning switch and a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound from the Oil King switch. When it comes to feel, the Lightning switch offers a subtle and polished typing experience, while the Oil King switch provides a creamy and silky sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a quick and effortless typing experience, making it perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference. The Lightning switch also provides a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, which adds to the overall enjoyable typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more luxurious typing experience, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be the ideal option for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a slightly heavier feel while still maintaining a comfortable typing experience. The Oil King switch is best known for its buttery smoothness, reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, and it produces a low-pitched and bassy sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Lightning and Gateron Oil King switches comes down to personal preference. If you value speed and a clacky sound, go for the Lightning. If you prefer a smooth and luxurious feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Oil King would be a great fit. Consider your typing style, preferences, and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard to make the best decision for your needs.
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