Gateron Mini i vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it's clear that each offers unique advantages depending on your preferences. The Mini i switch is perfect for those seeking a gentle tactile feedback with a fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet office environments where professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Oil King switch delivers buttery smoothness and a rich sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. 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
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Oil King both feature nylon top housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon. However, while both switches share the same housing material for their top housing, the Gateron Oil King stands out with its proprietary INK blend bottom housing. This unique blend gives the Oil King a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky and satisfying.
Despite both switches having nylon top housings, the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Oil King differ in their bottom housing materials. The Mini i features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile by creating a fuller and deeper sound when typing. On the other hand, the Oil King utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing. This blend adds a distinctive high-pitched tone to the switch's sound, making it sound more clacky and sharp compared to the fuller sound of the Mini i.
In terms of overall sound experience, the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Oil King play a crucial role. While both switches use nylon for their top housings, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing sets it apart with a more pointed and high-pitched sound profile. The different bottom housing materials of each switch impact the overall typing experience, with the Mini i offering a deeper and fuller sound while the Oil King delivers a more clacky and sharp sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Oil King linear switch. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Mini i provides a softer typing experience with less required force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Oil King offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force, suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Mini i catering to users who prefer a lighter touch and the Oil King appealing to those who prefer a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Oil King, which is more in line with the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Mini i with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Oil King. Both switches offer distinct travel distances to cater to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most environments, whether it be at home or in the office. The sound is moderate and does not stand out, making it ideal for a quiet and professional setting. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound that gives a darker and richer tone during typing sessions. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used, so customization may result in different auditory experiences.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, making it effortless and comfortable for long periods of typing. The mild and subtle resistance of these switches creates a gentle typing feel that is not too overwhelming. In comparison, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a creamy and silky typing experience, offering smooth and buttery keystrokes that glide effortlessly across the keys. The polished finish of these switches reduces friction and ensures a sleek typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i provides a neutral sound profile with a mild and subtle typing experience, perfect for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Oil King offers a low-pitched and bassy sound with a creamy and silky typing feel that enhances the smoothness of each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a gentle, bouncy, and easy-to-press switch with a subtle sound profile, the Mini i may be the ideal choice for you, especially in office settings where a quiet and professional typing experience is desired. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, creamy, and buttery typing feel with a low-pitched and rich sound profile, the Oil King could be the perfect fit, offering a luxurious typing experience akin to snapping into a dark chocolate bar. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing comfort, sound, and overall typing experience.
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