Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer unique experiences for users. The Oil King is a linear switch beloved for its smoothness and rich sound profile, often compared to the snap of a dark chocolate bar. With descriptors like 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Buttery', it provides a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer linear switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown is a tactile switch with no specific standout characteristic, making it a versatile option for those who appreciate a more balanced typing feel. If you're looking for a switch that prioritizes smoothness and a tactile feel, the Oil King might be the way to go. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and Outemu Crystal Brown switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Crystal Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the Oil King leans towards a duller and rounder sound, while the Crystal Brown provides a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Oil King boasts a proprietary INK blend that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky yet not overly sharp. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Despite differences in material, both bottom housings offer qualities that enhance the overall typing experience, complementing the top housing materials in creating a well-rounded sound profile.
The combination of different housing materials in the Gateron Oil King and Outemu Crystal Brown switches allows for a variety of sound profiles and tactile feedback. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound quality and feel, catering to the preferences of users seeking a specific typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Oil King or Crystal Brown, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinctive sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Oil King requires a heavier touch compared to the Crystal Brown. The Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The Oil King provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Crystal Brown offers a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches deliver similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, providing users with a range of options to choose from based on personal preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that they both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation with both switches. It is worth noting that both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing a reliable typing experience for users. Overall, the Gateron Oil King and Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer the same level of comfort and tactile feedback due to their equal travel distances.
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 Crystal Brown 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 tones, offering a deep and rich sound profile that can be compared to the snap of a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The typing sensation is likened to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, resulting in a seamless and uniform experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is unknown.
Taking all available information into account, the Gateron Oil King linear switch appears to excel in both sound and feel, offering a satisfying typing experience with its smoothness and rich sound profile. While information on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is lacking, based on the qualities of the Gateron Oil King, one can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with creamy, silky, buttery, or polished feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a different sound profile, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches.
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