Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Gold offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Gateron Oil King is a linear switch renowned for its smooth operation and rich sound profile, described as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch without any specific standout characteristics. The Oil King may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a buttery feel, while the Gold switch could be favored by individuals who enjoy the tactile feedback and audible clicks. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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 housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Gold switches offer different sound profiles and experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Oil King's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Gold's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic. This difference in sound quality makes the Oil King ideal for those seeking a more muted typing experience, while the Gold is better suited for users who prefer a clear and resonant sound.
Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of nylon material. However, the Oil King utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound profile compared to the Gold. This difference in bottom housing material adds another layer of customization and preference for keyboard enthusiasts looking to fine-tune their typing experience.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch is notable, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users choose the switch that best aligns with their preferences in terms of sound profile and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Gateron Oil King has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Gold's 45 grams, making the Oil King slightly more resistant to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Oil King at 65 grams is also heavier than the Gold's 60 grams, indicating that the Oil King requires a bit more pressure to press all the way down. Despite these differences, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with lighter switches like the Gold being better suited for extended typing sessions, while the heavier Oil King provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. Despite having different switch types (linear and clicky), both the Oil King and Gold switches offer a similar tactile feel due to their equal travel distances. This allows for smooth and responsive keystrokes, making them suitable options for users who prefer a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboards. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with no significant difference in travel distance.
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 Gold 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 offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps attached.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation, allowing fingers to glide across the keys with ease. In contrast, there is no specific information provided about the tactile feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Gateron Oil King linear switch stands out for its smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. While the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks specific details about its sound and feel qualities, it is worth noting that investing in high-quality keycaps and a well-built keyboard can enhance the overall typing experience regardless of the switch choice. Ultimately, whether you choose the Oil King or Gold switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with similar results in terms of smoothness and responsiveness.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery keystroke with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Oil King would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky tactile response with a medium bottom out force, the Gold switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize smoothness and sound or tactile feedback. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying typing experience that either switch can provide.
Mentioned in this article
