Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King and the Kailh Plum offer distinctive features and experiences. The Oil King is a linear switch that is praised for its smoothness and a sound profile that resembles the satisfying snap of a dark chocolate bar. With descriptors like low-pitched, creamy, and buttery, it is evident that the Oil King aims to provide a soothing and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that stands out for its weightiness without having a pronounced tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum offers a unique blend of heft and subtlety, allowing for a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, it is crucial to delve deeper into the specifics to determine which switch best aligns with your preferences. So, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the Kailh Plum switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic. This creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Plum switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic. This leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Oil King employs a proprietary INK blend, which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It strikes a balance between being sharp but not overly sharp, creating a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Plum switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, similar to the Oil King's top housing. This softer plastic material enhances the depth and fullness of the sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials, it becomes evident that they contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, which is experienced when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Oil King and the Plum offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, some similarities and differences can be observed. In terms of actuation force, the Oil King requires 55 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Plum's actuation force is unavailable. However, for both switches, it can be assumed that a similar amount of force is required to initiate a keystroke since they are both classified as medium-heavy switches.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Oil King has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Plum requires 70 grams to fully press down. This indicates that the Plum has a slightly heavier bottom out force than the Oil King.
Considering the weight of a switch is important for various reasons. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This lighter weight is particularly suitable for keyboards used in work environments or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel, leading to a more substantial typing experience. For those individuals, switches with heavier forces are more suitable.
In summary, the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, with weights of 65 grams and 70 grams respectively. The actuation force of the Oil King is 55 grams, while the Plum's actuation force is unavailable. Despite this, it can be assumed that both switches require a similar amount of force to trigger a keystroke due to their classification as medium-heavy switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see that the Oil King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience. The Oil King's 4.0 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, offering a moderate depth that many users find comfortable. On the other hand, the Plum's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, often favored by gamers. While both switches provide a decent amount of travel, it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a deeper and richer tone, reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate tone without any specific emphasis on bass or treble. This makes the sound enjoyable and suitable for most typing environments. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual results may vary. However, if you are looking for a similar low-pitched and enjoyable sound profile, the Kailh Plum tactile switch could provide similar results as the Gateron Oil King linear switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and effortless keystroke, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as mild and stepped. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced tactile bumps. The Plum switch has a safe middle-ground feel, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. While the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a luxurious and smooth typing experience, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a more approachable and gentle feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Oil King offers a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, stepped typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences. However, if you are looking for a similarly enjoyable low-pitched sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the Kailh Plum tactile switch could be a suitable alternative to the Gateron Oil King linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Oil King would be an excellent choice. These switches are highly regarded for their buttery smoothness and low-pitched, bassy sound profile. Typing on them feels creamy, silky, and polished, providing a gliding sensation with minimal resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Plum would be a unique option. Despite its weightiness, the Plum does not feature a significant tactile bump, distinguishing it from other tactile switches and making it enjoyable for a wider range of users. The Plum has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild and stepped typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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