Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Oil King is a linear switch that is highly praised for its smoothness and deep sound profile, making typing feel like snapping a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout features mentioned. While the Oil King is ideal for those who enjoy a buttery and bassy typing experience, the Dustproof Blue may appeal to users who prefer a standard, clicky switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your individual needs.
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
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 the Outemu Dustproof Blue both have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and feel. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. While both materials offer distinct sound qualities, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing produces a higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, compared to the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing, which enhances the switch's deeper and fuller sound profile.
Despite their different top and bottom housing materials, the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Dustproof Blue both leverage the unique qualities of nylon in their housing components. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a specific sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller tone, thanks to its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Whether it's the Oil King's nylon top housing or the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing, both switches benefit from the acoustical properties of this classic material. However, the slight difference in the sound profile can be attributed to the specific blend of materials used by each brand, resulting in the distinct clackiness of the Oil King and the rounder sound of the Dustproof Blue.
In terms of feel and sound distribution, the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Dustproof Blue showcase how top and bottom housing materials impact typing experience differently. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, as it directly affects the impact felt when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing has a more pronounced impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing contributes to a sharper sound profile, the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing enhances the switch's deeper sound quality. Overall, understanding the interaction between these housing materials can help keyboard enthusiasts tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have similar bottom out forces at 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. However, the difference lies in their actuation forces, with the Oil King requiring 55 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Dustproof Blue only needs 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Blue may be preferred by those looking for a more responsive typing experience, while the Oil King's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer similar tactile feedback and typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Users can expect consistent performance from both switches when it comes to actuation and release points. Despite their similarities in travel distance, the Oil King linear switch is known for its smooth and silent keystrokes, making it ideal for typing in quiet environments, while the Dustproof Blue clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible click, providing a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer feedback. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the individual preference coming down to the level of tactile and audible feedback desired.
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 Dustproof 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 considering the sound profile of the Gateron Oil King linear switch compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, the Oil King offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deep and rich acoustic experience during key presses. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Dustproof Blue switch are unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps utilized.
Moving on to the typing feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is often described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. These qualities result in a luxurious sensation of gliding fingers across the keys with ease. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remains unknown.
Considering all available information, it is evident that the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides an exceptional sound profile with a low-pitched and bassy tone, coupled with a typing experience characterized by creaminess, silkiness, and a buttery-smooth feel. On the other hand, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remain undisclosed. It can be assumed that by opting for the Oil King, users can expect a similar high-quality sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying and premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Oil King linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in terms of sound and feel. If you value a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, along with a creamy, silky, buttery, or polished typing experience, the Oil King may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a distinct sound and tactile feedback, the Dustproof Blue switch could be the better option. Ultimately, it is important to consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and overall typing experience before making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
