KTT Miaowu vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Oil King, both of which are linear switches. The Miaowu Switch from KTT is renowned for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to its utilization of POK in its stem material. This switch is described as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King stands out for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile that brings to mind a dark chocolate bar snapping, earning it categories like 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Bassy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique characteristics that may cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
Color coated
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Oil King both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Miaowu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Oil King's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Oil King's nylon top housing offers a classic feel with a rounder sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Miaowu and Oil King continue to showcase their differences. The Miaowu features a nylon bottom housing, echoing the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with this classic switch housing material. In comparison, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a pointed and high-pitched sound, described as clacky. This highlights how the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, influencing the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Miaowu and Oil King differ in their housing materials, they both bring unique characteristics to the table. The Miaowu's use of polycarbonate and nylon results in a clear and resonant sound, while the Oil King's blend of nylon and proprietary INK creates a deeper and clacky sound profile. Despite their differences, these housing materials showcase the importance of material selection in achieving the desired typing feel and sound. Whether it's a sharper, crisper sound from polycarbonate or a fuller, rounder sound from nylon, both switches offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch differ significantly. The Miaowu has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Oil King requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a stronger push when typing may find the Oil King more suitable for their needs. However, for individuals who prioritize typing for long periods without fatigue, the Miaowu may be the better option due to its lighter weight requirement. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Miaowu due to its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Oil King with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with each offering a different typing experience based on the difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 KTT Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound, reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. Depending on your preference, the Miaowu switch may provide a more crisp and bright sound, while the Oil King switch delivers a deeper and richer tone during key presses.
When it comes to feel, the Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its creamy, silky, and buttery feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Oil King switch's lubricant application or specific materials contribute to a gliding sensation when typing, while the Miaowu switch's enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action provide a bouncy and responsive feel.
Considering both the sound and feel qualities of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct experiences for users. If you prefer a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Miaowu switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a low-pitched, bassy sound and a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, the Oil King switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so selecting between them would depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Miaowu switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a creamy, silky, or buttery typing experience with a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Oil King switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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