Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Oil King (V2) and Outemu Silver linear switches each offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Oil King (V2) stands out with its exceptional buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile, often likened to the satisfying snap of a dark chocolate bar. This switch is perfect for users who prioritize a plush typing feel that combines a polished performance with a bassy, creamy sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver, while it lacks specific standout characteristics, serves as a solid entry-point linear switch that many users might appreciate for its straightforward design and functionality. Choosing the Oil King (V2) means indulging in a tactile and auditory experience, while the Outemu Silver offers a basic yet reliable performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Oil King (V2) Linear

Outemu Silver Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Silver, a notable contrast is observed in the materials chosen for their respective top housings. The Oil King (V2) utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is largely attributed to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound generated when typing on the Oil King (V2) has a more muted and rounded quality. In contrast, the Outemu Silver features a polycarbonate top housing that yields a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity allows it to transmit sound more clearly, resulting in a higher-pitched and resonant typing experience. Thus, while both switches can deliver satisfying feedback, the auditory experience will be distinctly different, with the Oil King (V2) favoring warmth and depth, while the Outemu Silver leans towards brightness and clarity.

In examining the bottom housings, however, both switches showcase the classic material nylon, but with different implications for sound. The Oil King (V2) employs a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp, contributing to a clacky sound profile. This character contrasts with the Outemu Silver's nylon bottom housing, which similarly promotes a deeper, fuller sound. The inherent qualities of nylon enhance the sounds produced by both switches, albeit with different auditory focuses governed by the distinct top housings. This mix of softer bottom housing in the Oil King (V2) with a more rigid top and the entirely nylon construction of the Outemu Silver creates an interesting dynamic: while both utilize nylon, the balance of sound profiles and tactile feedback significantly diverges due to the materials chosen for their top housings.

Overall, the interaction between the different materials used in the top and bottom housings leads to unique sound and feel experiences for each switch, even when some components are the same. The Gateron Oil King (V2) combines a softer nylon top with a proprietary higher-pitched blend in the bottom, resulting in a sound that is both deeper and sharper. The Outemu Silver, with its nylon bottom, maintains a consistent depth while capitalizing on the crisp clarity of the polycarbonate top. Consequently, both models offer distinct tactile responses that can be appreciated by users based on their preference for auditory feedback: whether one enjoys the dampened warmth of nylon or the bright resonance of polycarbonate. Ultimately, despite the differences in materials, a user can achieve satisfying results from both switches, which cater to diverse typing preferences and styles.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we see notable differences in actuation force. The Oil King (V2) has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, making it heavier and likely preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silver features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who favor a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches, however, share the same bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating that once pressed fully down, they provide a consistent resistance regardless of their different actuation forces. This similarity in bottom out force means that while the Oil King (V2) requires more effort to initiate a keystroke, both switches will offer an equal feeling of resistance when fully bottomed out. Overall, the Oil King (V2) is the heavier switch due to its greater actuation force, while the Outemu Silver is the lighter option, catering to different user preferences.

Travel distance

The Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect comparable tactile feedback and actuation feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. With both switches having the same 4 mm travel distance, they will deliver similar results in terms of keystroke responsiveness and typing experience. This uniformity is advantageous for those who prioritize a consistent feel across different switches in their keyboard setup.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is notable for its low-pitched and bassy profile, providing a richer and more mellow tone that can be reminiscent of the sound of a dark chocolate bar snapping. This deep sound character creates a more immersive typing experience, as it resonates comfortably without being overly sharp or piercing. In contrast, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have an established sound profile, meaning it lacks specific notable characteristics that would set it apart, resulting in a less definitive auditory experience compared to the Oil Kings.

In terms of feel, the Oil King (V2) excels with descriptors like creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. This switch offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, largely attributed to factory lubrication or specific materials used in its construction. Typing on these switches feels fluid and allows for gliding motions across the keycaps, enhancing comfort during extended use. On the flip side, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have any known descriptions regarding its feel, leaving prospective users without a clear understanding of the tactile experience they might encounter.

Overall, the Gateron Oil King (V2) emerges as a superior choice for those seeking a rich auditory experience coupled with an extraordinarily smooth typing feel. Its sound qualities and the luxurious sensation it offers while typing clearly set it apart from the Outemu Silver linear switch, which lacks notable characteristics in both sound and feel. For users who prioritize those refined qualities, the Oil Kings would be the preferred option, while the Outemu Silvers remain a more enigmatic alternative without distinct attributes to define their performance.

Conclusion

To summarize, choosing between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience along with a rich, low-pitched sound profile, the Oil King (V2) would be your go-to option. Its creamy and silky characteristics provide a luxurious sensation with each keystroke, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where comfort is critical. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more straightforward switch without specific attributes highlighted, the Outemu Silver linear switch may fit the bill. While it also has a medium-heavy bottom out force, it lacks the distinct sound and feel profile of the Oil King (V2), which could be preferable if you’re seeking a more utilitarian switch or if you’re new to mechanical keyboards and still exploring options. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and the overall experience you're aiming for; this will guide you to the switch that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Oil King (V2) Linear

$6.50 per 10

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Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more