Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Oil King, a linear switch, to the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, there are notable differences in their characteristics. The Oil King stands out for its smooth operation and a sound profile that evokes imagery of snapping a dark chocolate bar. Described as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Ocean switch from Outemu does not have a specific distinguishing feature listed, leaving room for exploration. Choosing the Oil King may appeal to those who prefer a quieter, smoother typing experience, while the Ocean switch provides an opportunity for users to discover its unique qualities. 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Ocean offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Oil King's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Ocean's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This difference can be attributed to the softness of nylon absorbing more sound compared to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Oil King's INK blend results in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound similar to the characteristics of nylon in the top housing. Despite the differences in the bottom housing materials, both switches maintain a satisfying sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of both the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Ocean play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. While they differ in terms of sound characteristics, with the Oil King offering a fuller and deeper sound while the Ocean produces a sharper and crisper sound, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether it's the nylon top housing of the Oil King or the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean, each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch, ultimately influencing how the switch sounds and feels.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Oil King has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Ocean, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Oil King's medium-heavy weight may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Ocean's lighter weight might be more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the Oil King offers a balance between actuation and bottom out force, while the Ocean's force characteristics remain unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of weight.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making their key press experience quite similar in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you're using the Oil King or the Ocean, you can expect to feel the same amount of key travel when typing. However, it's interesting to note that despite having the same travel distance, the Oil King is a linear switch while the Ocean is a tactile switch. Linear switches provide a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, while tactile switches have a noticeable bump at the actuation point. This distinction in the type of switch mechanism can lead to differences in typing feel and preference for users based on their typing style and preference for feedback.
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 Ocean 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, the Oil King is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, resembling the snap of a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Ocean switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Oil King is praised for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. Unfortunately, there is no information provided about the tactile feel of the Outemu Ocean switch. However, based on the characteristics of the Oil King, it is safe to assume that the Ocean switch might offer a similarly smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its smooth and buttery feel, along with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. While details about the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are lacking in this comparison, if you enjoy the qualities of the Oil King, it is likely that the Ocean switch could provide a similar typing experience. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, consider factors such as sound preference, typing feel, and overall typing experience to determine which best suits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, then the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique typing experience and haven't preference for bottom out force, consider trying the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. It's important to consider both the typing feel and sound profile to ensure that you find the switch that best suits your needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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