Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can often boil down to individual tactile and auditory experiences. The Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Akko Rosewood, both linear switches, exemplify this notion with their unique characteristics. The Oil King (V2) is celebrated for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of dark chocolate snapping, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a creamy, silky typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood offers a distinct thocky sound that provides a satisfying auditory feedback right from the get-go, thanks to its factory-applied lubricant. While the Oil King focuses on a polished, smooth feel that can enhance prolonged typing sessions, the Rosewood's deep acoustics might appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced audio experience with each keystroke. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Oil King (V2) Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Akko Rosewood switches, both utilize nylon for their top housings, which is a well-regarded material in the mechanical keyboard community. The use of nylon is noteworthy because it introduces a sound profile that tends to be deeper and fuller due to its softer structure. This characteristic allows for a more muted auditory experience when typing, as the nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. Essentially, both switches will produce a similar sound profile when considering their top housings alone, providing a satisfying, rounded auditory experience that appeals to many keyboard enthusiasts.

However, a significant distinction arises in the bottom housing of these two switches. The Oil King (V2) features a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which contributes a higher-pitched, clackier sound compared to the Rosewood's nylon bottom housing. This difference means that while the top portion of both switches may produce a comparable sound, the bottom housing in the Oil King (V2) gives a more pronounced and thinner pitch during usage, enhancing the overall typing experience with its unique auditory flare. Conversely, the Rosewood's nylon construction maintains a cohesive sound profile throughout, relying more heavily on the deeper tones established by both housings.

The combination of these materials leads to a nuanced comparison between the two switches. While both would generate similar outcomes in terms of sound quality at the top of the keystroke, their performance during the bottom-out phase will differ largely due to the Oil King (V2)'s INK blend bottom housing. This divergence means that the typing experience will feel and sound unique in its entirety, giving users clear choices based on their preferences for auditory feedback while typing. Therefore, while you might enjoy comparable results with the top housing, the overall experience will vary, showcasing the distinct qualities of each switch based on their material compositions.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Oil King (V2) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch exhibits a much lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who favor a lighter touch for longer typing sessions and gaming. As a result, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is the heavier option, while the Akko Rosewood is the lighter one. Ultimately, users should choose based on their personal preference for force feedback: the heavier Oil King (V2) may provide a more tactile experience, while the lighter Rosewood allows for easier, prolonged use.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning you'll experience a similar depth when pressing down on either key. This equivalency results in a consistent actuation feel across both switches, making them equally responsive for typing and gaming activities. Since they have identical travel distances, users can expect comparable keypress feedback, allowing for a seamless transition between the two if you're switching keyboards or switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Oil King (V2) excels with its low-pitched and bassy audio profile, which provides a deep, mellow tone during key presses. This gives the typing experience a warm ambiance, akin to the satisfying crack of a dark chocolate bar. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood switches deliver a distinctive thocky sound right from the outset, adding to the auditory pleasure of typing. While the Oil King’s sound is characterized by its depth and richness, the Rosewood's deep resonance creates a solid strike that users find enjoyable. Overall, both switches offer rich and satisfying sound profiles, though they cater to slightly different auditory preferences.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Oil King (V2) stands out as exceptionally smooth, with descriptors like creamy, silky, buttery, and polished highlighting its luxurious typing experience. Users will appreciate how the lubrication and design combine to provide a gliding motion across the keys, making each keystroke feel effortless. The Akko Rosewood switch does not have specific feel characteristics provided, which leaves a gap in the understanding of how it compares in terms of smoothness and overall tactile experience. However, due to the Oil King’s detailed attributes, users can expect a notably refined feeling with that particular switch.

In summary, both the Gateron Oil King (V2) and Akko Rosewood linear switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. The Oil King’s low-pitched, bassy sound contrasts with the thocky quality of the Rosewood, while the Oil King’s smooth tactile feel is further enhanced by its luxurious descriptors. While the Rosewood’s feel remains unknown, its auditory quality paired with the Oil King’s characteristics presents options for users seeking satisfying mechanical keyboard experiences. Whether you prioritize sound or feel, both switches can provide a demarcated experience that enthusiasts of linear switches will surely enjoy.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a bottom out force of 65 grams, and seek a typing experience that offers buttery smoothness paired with a rich, low-pitched sound reminiscent of dark chocolate, then the Oil King (V2) is likely the better choice for you. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience and appreciate a deeper sound profile. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a deep, satisfying thocky sound straight from the box, the Akko Rosewood linear switch may align more closely with your preferences. Its sound character is more prominent due to factory lubrication, which enhances the auditory experience without requiring additional modifications. In the end, consider the feel and sound that resonate with you the most, as these key differences will significantly impact your overall typing experience on your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Oil King (V2) Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more