Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King, a linear switch, and the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch, present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Oil King is celebrated for its smoothness and deep sound profile, often likened to snapping a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the Milk Blue doesn't have a specific standout feature but offers a traditional clicky switch experience. While the Oil King is favored for its low-pitched, creamy, and buttery feel, the Milk Blue remains a classic choice for those who prefer a more traditional clicky sound. 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
N/A
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 Milk Blue feature different top housing materials, with the Oil King utilizing nylon and the Milk Blue using polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Oil King produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because it is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The aesthetic difference is also notable, with the translucent polycarbonate of the Milk Blue allowing for RGB lighting, while the opaque nylon of the Oil King offers a more classic look.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to that of the Oil King's nylon top housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing may not have the same distinct sound profile as the Oil King's bottom housing, but it still contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the bottom housing of a switch has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Milk Blue ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, feel, and aesthetic preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, providing a variety of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to choose from.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Oil King has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. Additionally, the Oil King also has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial as it determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much pressure is needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Blue with its lower actuation force, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Oil King with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect consistent tactile feedback and responsiveness from both switches. In terms of travel distance, there is no distinguishable difference between the two, as they offer the same level of key travel. Whether typing on the Gateron Oil King or the Outemu Milk Blue switch, users can enjoy a smooth typing experience with a 4 mm 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 Milk 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 offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. In comparison, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Oil King is praised for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, akin to gliding their fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, information regarding the specific feel of the Outemu Milk Blue switch is not provided.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch stands out for its smoothness and deep sound profile, along with its creamy and polished typing feel. On the other hand, information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is not available. If you are looking for a switch with a similar typing experience to the Oil King, you may want to consider other linear switches with similar descriptions of smoothness and buttery feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience 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 a clicky switch with an undefined bottom out force and a different typing experience, the Milk Blue switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and the feel and sound you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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