Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Phoenix are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique features. The Oil King is a linear switch that is best known for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile, resembling the satisfying snap of a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. If you prefer a creamy and silky typing experience, the Oil King would be an excellent choice, while the Phoenix offers a crunchy and polished sensation. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics of these switches to help you make the best decision for your keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Phoenix differ in their housing materials, with the Oil King featuring a nylon top housing and a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, while the Phoenix has a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. When it comes to sound profiles, the nylon top housing of the Oil King produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Phoenix creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that results in a clearer and more resonant sound profile. However, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix shares similar characteristics with the INK blend bottom housing of the Oil King, both producing a relatively high-pitched sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the Oil King's nylon top housing lacks the translucency of the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing, making it less suitable for implementing RGB lighting. The clear polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix allows for vibrant and eye-catching lighting effects, making it a more appealing option for those who want to enhance their keyboard with RGB lighting. However, both switches offer a visually pleasing appearance, with the Oil King's nylon top housing providing a classic and timeless look, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate housing adds a modern and sleek touch to the keyboard.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role. The Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is often described as clacky. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix shares similar characteristics with the INK blend bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing of the switch affects the sound when releasing a key. Although the specific impact may differ, both the Oil King's nylon top housing and the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing contribute to the overall sound experience when key release occurs.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Phoenix have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles and aesthetics. The Oil King's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The polycarbonate bottom housing of both switches shares similarities in their sound profiles. Additionally, the Phoenix's polycarbonate housing offers the advantage of translucency for enhanced RGB lighting effects. However, both switches provide a satisfying tactile experience when pressing and releasing keys, influenced by the qualities of their respective top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Oil King is 55 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Phoenix is unknown. Despite this, both switches can provide a similar result as they fall within the medium range.
In terms of bottom out force, the Oil King requires 65 grams of force, giving it a medium-heavy feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium category.
Considering the importance of weight in switch selection, those who prefer lighter switches may find the Oil King more suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Its lighter actuation force allows for a smoother typing experience over a longer period.
However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Phoenix's heavier bottom out force may provide a satisfying push sensation. This can enhance the tactile feedback and give a more pronounced typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether one favors a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force, both options offer their own advantages and can cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have different travel distances. The Oil King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Oil King's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, while the Phoenix's 3.0mm distance is more shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive key press, the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In this case, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Oil King switch with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 provides a low-pitched and bassy tone during key presses. This gives it a deep and rich sound profile, reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a unique and distinct sound. With its under-skirt click mechanism, it produces a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and autumn leaves. It has a crystalline and sparkling type feel, which adds to the overall auditory experience. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the Oil King and Phoenix switches offer a polished typing experience. This indicates that they both have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and enjoyable keystroke sensation. The Oil King is often described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. This can be attributed to the application of lubricant in the switch at the factory, as well as the specific materials used. Similarly, the Phoenix switch also provides reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a polished feel.
Based on the available information, both switches offer desirable qualities in their respective categories. The Oil King linear switch stands out for its smoothness and low-pitched sound profile, while the Phoenix clicky switch is known for its unique click mechanism and crunchy sound. If you are seeking a linear switch with smooth and rich tones, the Oil King would be a great choice. If you prefer a clicky switch that offers a distinct and sparkling feel, the Phoenix could be the perfect fit. Both switches provide an enjoyable typing experience, and by considering additional factors such as board and keycap choices, you can further enhance the overall feel and sound.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, along with a creamy, silky, buttery, or polished feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience and a sound profile reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, if you value a medium bottom out force and a crunchy sound profile, along with a polished feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be the better option. These switches feature a unique under-skirt click mechanism that provides a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for force, sound, and feel.
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