KTT Mint vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint 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 Mint and the Gateron Oil King, both of which are linear switches. The Mint is well-regarded for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience, characterized by a poppy thockiness. With its light and fleeting type feel, the Mint offers a unique sensation. On the other hand, the Oil King stands out with its buttery smoothness and a sound profile that reminds one of a snapping dark chocolate bar. This switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience. With categories such as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Mint caters to those seeking a distinct typing feel. Meanwhile, the Oil King, with its categories including 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Bassy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished', provides a smooth and rich typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The KTT Mint uses a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency allows for optimal use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Mint's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the Oil King's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mint and the Oil King use nylon as their material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, both switches offer a similar sound experience due to the sharing of nylon as their bottom housing material. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Thus, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing on either the KTT Mint or the Gateron Oil King due to their nylon bottom housings.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Mint and the Gateron Oil King differ, each housing material brings distinct qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mint emphasizes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the key is released. This is ideal for those who prioritize a responsive and clear sound. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the Oil King prioritizes a deeper and fuller sound, resulting in a more rounded and dull sound profile. Both switches offer unique sound experiences, with the Mint showcasing a sharper sound when releasing a key, and the Oil King providing a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it becomes evident that they offer different experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Mint switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Oil King switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that individuals who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming may find the Mint switch more suitable for their needs, allowing them to type for longer periods comfortably.
Additionally, the bottom out force of the Mint switch is 53 grams, indicating that it requires a relatively light force to fully depress the key. On the other hand, the Oil King switch has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Taking weight into consideration, it becomes clear that the Mint switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Oil King switch. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals who use their keyboards extensively, such as during work or long gaming sessions, as it reduces the effort required for each keystroke.
Overall, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a medium-light actuation force and bottom out force, providing a lightweight typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Oil King linear switch presents a medium-heavy actuation force and bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, we find that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on either of these switches will yield similar results. This means that whether you choose the Mint or the Oil King, you can expect the same distance of travel when pressing down on the keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, 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, both the KTT Mint and the Gateron Oil King have a low-pitched profile, which means they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Mint is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Oil King is described as having a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches provide pleasing sound qualities, with the Mint being more neutral and the Oil King having a slightly deeper and richer tone.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mint is described as having a mild and polished experience. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience and falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics. The Mint also features a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These switches are lubricated at the factory, resulting in a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. The Oil King also minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, further enhancing its smoothness. Additionally, like the Mint, the Oil King also boasts a polished finish for reduced friction and sleek key travel. Both switches provide exceptional typing experiences, with the Mint being mild and polished, and the Oil King offering a silky, buttery feel.
Considering all the available information, if you are looking for a linear switch with a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, the KTT Mint and the Gateron Oil King are excellent choices. They both offer smoothness and refined finishes, resulting in reduced friction and sleek key travel. In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched profile, but the Mint has a more neutral sound while the Oil King offers a deeper and richer sound reminiscent of a snapping dark chocolate bar. The Mint provides a light and fleeting typing feel, while the Oil King emphasizes a buttery smoothness. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and feel. However, rest assured that both switches will deliver a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying linear switch, the KTT Mint is a great choice. Its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams provides a light and fleeting typing feel. The long pole stem of the Mint gives it a poppy thockiness, making it a unique and enjoyable switch to use. In terms of sound, the Mint offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, making it suitable for most purposes. In terms of feel, the Mint is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth switch with a richer sound profile, the Gateron Oil King is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Oil King offers a luxurious typing experience. Its sound profile is low-pitched and bassy, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. In terms of feel, the Oil King is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Like the Mint, it also has a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mint and the Gateron Oil King depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a poppy thockiness, the Mint is a great choice. However, if you prefer a buttery smooth switch with a rich sound profile reminiscent of a snapping dark chocolate bar, the Oil King is the way to go. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel descriptions to make an informed decision based on your preferences.
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