Jerrzi Lotus V2 vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Lotus V2, a linear switch, to the Gateron Oil King, also a linear switch, it’s essential to note their distinct characteristics. The Lotus V2 is best known for its unique qualities. Categorized as a premium linear switch, it offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King stands out for its smoothness and sound profile, which is reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. Categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished, the Oil King provides a luxurious typing sensation. If you’re looking for a switch with a linear feel, both the Lotus V2 and Oil King have their strengths. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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 Lotus V2 and the Gateron Oil King both contribute to creating unique sound profiles for their respective switches. The Lotus V2 features a POM top housing, which leads to a deep and muted sound when typing, while the Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a fuller and rounder sound. The differences in sound can be attributed to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to the harder POM material.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Lotus V2 and the Oil King also showcase distinct characteristics. The Lotus V2's POM bottom housing offers a deep and muted sound profile similar to its top housing, while the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing delivers a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. These differences in sound can be attributed to the unique blend of materials used by Gateron in their bottom housing compared to the POM material of the Lotus V2.
While both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials, they both aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing material is more pronounced during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both the Lotus V2 and the Oil King offer users a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Lotus V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Oil King's 55 grams, making the Lotus V2 easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Oil King is heavier with a 65-gram force compared to the Lotus V2's unavailable bottom out force. Both switches offer varying experiences when it comes to typing, with the Lotus V2 providing a lighter touch for longer use, while the Oil King offers a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron Oil King linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lotus V2's shorter travel distance is ideal for gamers looking for faster response times, while the Oil King's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to key presses for some users. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Lotus V2 feeling more abrupt due to its shorter travel distance, while the Oil King may feel more deliberate and intentional with its longer travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference on travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 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
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus V2 switch is known for its unique characteristics, while the Oil King switch is praised for its smoothness and rich sound profile. When it comes to sound, the Lotus V2 does not have any specific descriptors available, whereas the Oil King is described as low-pitched and bassy, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches will offer a satisfying auditory experience, with the Oil King leaning towards a more mellow and bass-heavy sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Lotus V2 does not have any specific descriptors available, while the Oil King is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and luxurious typing experience. This indicates that the Oil King switch has been carefully engineered to provide a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The presence of lubricant in these switches enhances their overall smoothness and minimizes resistance, resulting in a refined and polished typing experience.
Ultimately, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is clear that both switches have unique strengths. While the Lotus V2 may offer a different sound and feel experience compared to the Oil King, they both aim to provide a satisfying and premium typing experience. Whether you choose the Lotus V2 for its distinct characteristics or the Oil King for its smoothness and rich sound profile, you can expect a high-quality performance from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you are deciding between the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider the factors that are important to you. If you prioritize a switch with a bottom out force of None grams and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Lotus V2 may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a rich sound profile, the Oil King could be the better choice for you. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.