Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, one can immediately notice the contrasting characteristics between the two. The Oil King is celebrated for its buttery smooth feel and low-pitched sound profile, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoy a quiet and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf lacks a specific standout feature but offers a more generic typing experience. If you prefer a linear switch with a polished feel, the Oil King may be the ideal choice for you. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Maple Leaf both feature nylon top housings, which provide a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon top housings. The similarities in material choice between the two switches suggest that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
However, where the Oil King sets itself apart is with its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which offers a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile that is characterized as clacky but not overly sharp. In contrast, the Maple Leaf sticks to the classic nylon material for its bottom housing, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to that of the top housing. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to variations in sound and feel when actuating the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron Oil King and Outemu Maple Leaf reflects the importance of the overall sound profile and typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches utilize nylon for their top housings, the unique blend of materials in the Oil King's bottom housing sets it apart from the Maple Leaf. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a clackier, higher-pitched sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is important to note that both switches have the same actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key response and force required. The Oil King and Maple Leaf switches both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of weight, providing a decent balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards these switches, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience will also find these switches suitable. In terms of weight preference, both the Oil King and Maple Leaf switches offer a versatile typing experience that caters to a wide range of user preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it longer than the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Oil King provides a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Maple Leaf. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Oil King may be more suitable for those who prefer a bit more travel distance for a more substantial keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance can offer quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Maple Leaf 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
Sound-wise, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, giving off a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have a specific sound description available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is renowned for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. With lubricant applied in the switch at the factory, these switches provide a smooth and seamless typing sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. In contrast, there is no specific feel description available for the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth and buttery typing experience accompanied by a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, then the Gateron Oil King switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with characteristics like the Outemu Maple Leaf, you may need to try it out personally to determine if it meets your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it is essential to consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a creamy, silky, buttery, or polished typing experience, the Oil King may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and do not have specific preferences for sound and feel, the Maple Leaf could be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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