Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Durock Piano 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 Durock Piano, both of which are linear switches. The Oil King stands out for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile that brings to mind a delightful dark chocolate bar snapping. With its low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, polished categorization, it offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano is known for its proprietary material blend, resulting in one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on. Users often enjoy a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature when using this switch, which falls under the bassy, frictionless, silky category. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that make them desirable options for different individuals, and choosing between them depends on personal preferences and typing needs. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision regarding the ideal switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Durock Piano differ in their choice of housing materials, with the Oil King utilizing a nylon top housing and an INK blend bottom housing, while the Piano features a proprietary POM blend for both the top and bottom housings. The nylon top housing of the Oil King creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the Piano's POM blend top housing offers a satisfying and deep sound profile, although the exact details of the blend remain undisclosed. Both switches aim to provide a unique auditory experience, with the Oil King focusing on a softer, absorbing sound, while the Piano aims for a deep and satisfying profile.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Oil King's INK blend is known for producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. This thin and higher-pitched sound adds a distinctive quality to typing on the switches. Similarly, the Piano's POM blend bottom housing contributes to its satisfying and deep sound profile. While the exact composition of the POM blend is unknown, it is designed to enhance the auditory experience of the switch. These differences in bottom housing materials allow for variation in the sound produced when bottoming-out the keys, giving each switch a unique clacky or satisfying sound.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the Durock Piano differ, their aim remains the same – to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. While the Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, the Piano features a proprietary POM blend top housing that offers a satisfying and deep sound profile. Likewise, the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing produces a distinct clacky sound, while the Piano's POM blend bottom housing contributes to its overall satisfying sound profile. Despite the differences in the specific materials used, both switches were designed to enhance the auditory experience of typing, ensuring that users will still achieve a similar level of satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it becomes evident that their actuation forces and bottom out forces are quite similar. The Gateron Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Durock Piano's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making them considered medium-heavy in terms of force required.
Considering weight is an important factor for keyboard enthusiasts, as it affects the typing experience and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Gateron Oil King, as its lower actuation force allows for extended periods of typing without strain. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who require a keyboard for work or long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience, which requires a stronger push. For these users, the Durock Piano switch may be more suitable. Although its actuation force is unknown, its slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams provides a tactile feedback and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Oil King and Durock Piano linear switches have comparable bottom out forces, with the Durock Piano being slightly heavier, their actuation forces differ. The Gateron Oil King offers a lighter actuation force, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing, while the Durock Piano provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results and offer a consistent tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, both switches offer a deep and rich sound profile characterized by a lower frequency range. The Oil King is described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound. Typing on the Oil King switch produces a sound reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, creating a mellow and bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Piano switch is also described as bassy, offering a deep and creamy sound signature. While both switches share similarities in sound, the specific sound produced can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless keystroke experience, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Typing on the Oil King switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Similarly, the Durock Piano linear switch provides a frictionless and silky typing experience. This means that the keys have an exceptionally smooth feel with minimal resistance or friction during key presses.
Taking into account the available information, both the Gateron Oil King and Durock Piano linear switches offer subjective qualities that make them pleasant to type on. In terms of sound, both switches have a deep and rich sound profile, with the Oil King leaning towards a low-pitched and bassy tone while the Piano focuses on a creamy sound signature. Regarding the feel, both switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, with the Oil King being described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, and the Piano offering a frictionless and silky feel. While each switch may have its own unique characteristics, it is important to consider factors like personal preference, keyboard setup, and keycap choices to determine which switch would best suit an individual's typing preferences. Ultimately, it is possible for a newcomer to achieve similar results with either switch, depending on their specific preferences and setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are a few factors to consider.
In terms of bottom out force, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, with the Oil King at 65 grams and the Piano at 63.5 grams. This means that they have a slightly heavier feel compared to lighter switches, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Sound-wise, both switches offer a bassy sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. However, the Oil King also has a low-pitched characteristic, adding a mellow and bass-heavy tone. If you prioritize a lower frequency range and a sound reminiscent of dark chocolate snapping, the Oil King might be the better choice for you.
When it comes to feel, both switches excel in providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Oil King offers a creamy, silky, and buttery sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. It is also described as polished, indicating a refined finish and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Piano is described as frictionless and silky, emphasizing its exceptionally smooth typing feel and minimal resistance.
In the end, your choice between the Gateron Oil King and the Durock Piano will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a bit of added resistance, a low-pitched sound profile, and a typing experience akin to a dark chocolate bar snapping, the Oil King is a great option. However, if you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a deep and rich sound, along with a smooth and frictionless typing feel, the Piano might be the ideal choice for you. Overall, both switches offer their own unique qualities, allowing you to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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