Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options that may catch your eye are the Gateron Oil King, a linear switch, and the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch. The Oil King is lauded for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile akin to the snap of a dark chocolate bar. It is categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished. On the other hand, the Cream Blue doesn't have any specific standout characteristics listed, but it falls under the clicky switch category. When deciding between these two switches, you may want to lean towards the Oil King for its smoothness and unique sound profile, or opt for the Cream Blue if you prefer the tactile feedback of a clicky switch. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Cream Blue both use nylon top housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic provides a unique typing experience for users of both switches, making them popular among enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile in their mechanical keyboards.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Oil King features a proprietary INK blend that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound when typing. This blend creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Cream Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The combination of the nylon top and bottom housings in the Cream Blue ensures a consistent typing experience with a rich sound that may appeal to a different set of users compared to the Oil King.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials between the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Cream Blue, both switches ultimately aim to enhance the overall sound profile and typing experience for users. While the INK blend in the Oil King produces a unique clacky sound, the nylon housing in the Cream Blue provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether users prefer a sharper sound with the Oil King or a rounder sound with the Cream Blue, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Oil King has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. The slight difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Cream Blue, which could be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Oil King's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing experience and weight preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that users will experience a similar level of key press depth regardless of which switch they choose. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same amount of travel distance, allowing for precise and responsive key presses. Overall, whether you opt for the Oil King or the Cream Blue, you can expect a comparable travel distance and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy profile, giving a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound qualities is not available. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Gateron Oil King is described as offering a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means users can expect a smooth and fluid keystroke that feels effortless and uniform. In contrast, there is no information available about the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Gateron Oil King linear switch stands out for its smooth and buttery feel, along with its low-pitched and bassy sound profile. The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks known information for both sound and feel qualities. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a luxurious typing experience accompanied by a deep and rich sound, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be a great choice. If you are considering the Outemu Cream Blue switch, it is recommended to further research or try out the switch yourself to determine its suitability for your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a smooth, buttery keystroke with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Oil King may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying click of a clicky switch but also desire a creamy and silky typing feel, the Cream Blue could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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