Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that often come up are the Gateron Oil King, a linear switch, and the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch. The Oil King is highly regarded for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile that brings to mind the snap of a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility and a unique sound experience with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. These general characteristics give a glimpse into the unique strengths of each switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Red Panda have contrasting top housing materials. While the Oil King uses nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile, the Red Panda utilizes polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for a better display of RGB lighting, making it ideal for those who prefer illuminated keyboards. In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of the Red Panda is a distinguishing feature.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gateron Oil King features a proprietary INK blend. This blend is known for producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as "clacky." On the other hand, the Red Panda employs a nylon bottom housing, which shares similarities with the Oil King's nylon top housing in terms of creating a deeper and fuller sound.
It's worth noting that the qualities of the top and bottom housings will impact different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the top and bottom housings of both switches differ, users can still expect similar results in terms of the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is important to consider the weight of each switch. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Outemu Red Panda is the better choice as it has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King offers a slightly heavier typing experience with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Red Panda is slightly lighter, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, the Oil King may be a preferable option. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see clear differences. The Oil King has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Oil King's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a familiar and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Red Panda's 3.3 mm travel distance is on the shallower side and may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time. The shorter travel distance of the Red Panda allows for quicker keystrokes, ideal for gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. However, it is worth noting that some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prioritizes a more responsive typing experience or a deeper key press. Overall, both switches offer their own unique advantages and deliver different sensations, so choosing the appropriate switch will ensure a satisfying typing or gaming experience accordingly.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40.
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 best known for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. It is described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The switch provides a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is known for its light to medium amount of tactility and a unique sound profile. It produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda switch is described as thocky, meaning it offers a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released.
While the sound profiles of the Gateron Oil King and Outemu Red Panda switches differ, they both provide distinct and enjoyable auditory experiences. The Oil King offers a low-pitched and bassy sound, while the Red Panda delivers a thocky sound. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the deeper and richer tone of the Oil King or the satisfying thock sound of the Red Panda.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Oil King is renowned for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. It offers exceptional smoothness, minimal resistance, and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda provides a milder tactile feel, offering a gentler typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King and Outemu Red Panda switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Oil King features a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, while the Red Panda has a thocky sound. In terms of feel, the Oil King provides a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, while the Red Panda offers a milder and approachable tactile feel. Depending on personal preference, one can choose between the rich sound and exceptional smoothness of the Oil King or the satisfying thock sound and gentle typing experience of the Red Panda.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is the way to go. With its bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy touch that provides a satisfying sensation while typing. The Oil King is best known for its creamy, silky, and buttery feel, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with each keystroke. Additionally, the Oil King produces a low-pitched and bassy sound, creating a rich and mellow tone during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle typing experience with a touch of tactility, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is a great choice. With its lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium touch that is approachable to most users. The Red Panda is best known for its thocky sound, which produces a deep and satisfying tone when keys are pressed and released.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you value smoothness and a refined typing experience, opt for the Oil King. If you prefer a gentler touch with a touch of tactility, the Red Panda is the way to go. Consider the sound profile and feel that resonate with you the most, and you'll find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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