Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Gateron Oil King and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The Oil King is a linear switch that is best known for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. It offers a low-pitched, creamy, silky, and bassy experience, giving typists a polished and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that stands out for its beautiful translucent design. With a light actuation force of 37g, typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is minimized, even during prolonged typing sessions. The 50g tactile force adds a delightful tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is a satisfying experience. It is categorized as bassy, stepped, and thocky. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the KTT Phalaenopsis demonstrate distinct differences in their sound profiles. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. While different, both materials offer unique audio experiences for typing enthusiasts.
Similarly, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend and the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate generate comparable characteristics. Both materials contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to their relatively stiffer nature. While the Oil King's INK blend is described as clacky, which adds a satisfying thin and higher-pitched element, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis also enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting in their setup, making both switches visually appealing options.
It is important to note that the housing materials play different roles in the overall sound production of a switch. While the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the different qualities brought by the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Oil King and the KTT Phalaenopsis allow for a versatile auditory experience, catering to individual preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Oil King has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option.
The actuation force is crucial as it determines the force required to trigger a keystroke. In this aspect, the Oil King requires a slightly stronger push to register a key press compared to the Phalaenopsis. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Conversely, the lighter actuation force of the Phalaenopsis makes it suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter switch.
Both switches have distinct advantages depending on personal preferences. For those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, the lighter actuation force of the Phalaenopsis may be preferable as it reduces the strain on fingers and allows for comfortable typing over extended durations. However, if a more substantial and tactile typing experience is desired, the Oil King's slightly heavier actuation force might be the better option.
It is worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, individuals seeking a similar feel can achieve comparable results by adjusting their typing technique on both switches. By consciously exerting a lighter touch on the Oil King or applying a slightly firmer press on the Phalaenopsis, users can tailor their experience to suit their preference to some extent.
In conclusion, when considering the actuation force and bottom out force, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a lighter alternative. Understanding personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience will help in choosing the switch that suits individual needs best.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that they both travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. When pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance, providing a similar feeling when typing. Therefore, both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
The Gateron Oil King linear switch is regarded for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile. When typing on these switches, users experience a satisfying and mellow tone, reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a light actuation force of 37g, minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. With a tactile force of 50g, each keystroke on the Phalaenopsis provides a discernible tactile bump, resulting in a delightful typing experience. In terms of sound, both switches share a bassy profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. While the Oil King is primarily described as low-pitched and bassy, the Phalaenopsis adds a thocky characteristic, further enhancing the depth and satisfaction of each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Oil King is often referred to as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, meaning it offers a smooth and refined typing experience. With lubricant applied at the factory and specific materials, typing on the Oil King switch feels like gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys, with a seamless and uniform sensation. Conversely, the Phalaenopsis is described as having a stepped feel. This implies that the tactile switch provides a mild tactile experience, where users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, but not a pronounced bump throughout the entire keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While both switches share a bassy sound profile, the Oil King provides a low-pitched experience, while the Phalaenopsis adds the thocky characteristic. In terms of feel, the Oil King offers a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis provides a stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the smooth and low-pitched sensation of the Oil King or the light actuation force and delightful tactile bump of the Phalaenopsis. Both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a silky and polished feel, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the low-pitched and bassy sound profile of the Oil King switches adds to the overall typing experience, resembling the richness associated with dark chocolate snapping.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force and a satisfying tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be more suitable for you. With its light actuation force and 50g tactile force, the Phalaenopsis switches provide an effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, even during long typing sessions. The beautiful translucent design of these switches adds an aesthetic charm to your keyboard setup. The Phalaenopsis switches are described as having a bassy sound profile, with a deep and rich "thocky" sound when pressed and released.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and the KTT Phalaenopsis switch depends on your personal preferences for typing experience. Whether you prioritize a smooth and buttery feel or a light and tactile experience, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience. So, consider your typing style and preferences, and make the decision that suits you best.
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