Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, you are faced with two unique options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Oil King is best known for its smooth and satisfying linear feel, offering a low-pitched sound profile that is reminiscent of snapping dark chocolate. On the other hand, the Purple switch from Outemu provides a tactile bump that gives a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke. While the Oil King is described as 'buttery', 'silky', and 'polished', the Purple switch does not have any specific descriptors attached to it. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound feedback. 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
2.00 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 Outemu Purple switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Purple switch uses a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound with more clarity and resonance. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the nylon top housing of the Oil King may result in a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Oil King utilizes a proprietary INK blend that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Purple switch features a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the nylon top housing of the Oil King. Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The combination of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch results in a balance of sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and Outemu Purple switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Oil King's use of nylon in the top housing may appeal to those seeking a deeper and fuller sound, while the Purple switch's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the bottom housing materials in each switch provide additional nuances to the typing experience, with the INK blend of the Oil King offering a higher-pitched sound and the nylon of the Purple contributing to a clackier sound. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the Oil King is slightly heavier in terms of both forces. The Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Purple has an actuation force of 50 grams but an unknown bottom out force. With the Oil King being heavier in both forces, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer this switch. However, for those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Purple may be a better option due to its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that you will get consistent results in terms of key feel and typing experience with either switch. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is identical, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a key switch with a moderate 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 Purple 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 profile, providing a deep and rich sound during key presses. In contrast, there is no specific information available for the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound profile. Sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is often described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific information available for the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King switch would be a great choice. As for the Outemu Purple tactile switch, while specific information on sound and feel is lacking, it may still provide a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preferences. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Gateron Oil King switch offering more detailed information on its subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Oil King may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Oil King may also be more to your liking. On the other hand, if bottom out force is not a concern and you are looking for a tactile switch, the Outemu Purple could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the experience you desire from your mechanical keyboard.
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