Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie stand out as two compelling linear options, each with unique characteristics. The Oil King (V2) is celebrated for its buttery smoothness and a low-pitched, creamy sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a tactile and immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a balanced medium weight and a thocky sound profile, combining affordability with top-tier performance; it's perfect for those seeking a satisfying auditory feedback without compromising on smoothness. Both switches deliver exceptional typing experiences, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel during use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches exhibit notable differences, particularly in their top housings. The Oil King (V2) utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, has sound-absorbing qualities that contribute to a rounder acoustic effect. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie features a POM top housing, which also aims to create a unique sound profile but leans towards a comparatively muted characteristic. While both materials aim for a pleasing auditory experience, the Oil King's nylon top tends to deliver a fuller sound, indicating a clear divergence in their acoustic performance.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, the differences remain pronounced. The Oil King (V2) employs a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as “clacky.” This gives the switch a distinctive auditory feedback that is vibrant and sharp. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom housing aligns more with its top housing, fostering a deeper and relatively muted sound. This contrast is important, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, highlighting fundamental differences in how each switch would perform in real-world typing scenarios.
While the Gateron Oil King (V2) and Sea Salt Smoothie switches utilize different materials for their housings, the potential for similar results exists due to the complementary nature of their respective designs. The Oil King's combination of nylon and INK blend creates a differentiated sound that enriches the typing experience with its clackiness when bottoming out, while the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM housings yield a more consistent and muted response. Ultimately, the impact of the housing materials can create unique but satisfying experiences; those who prioritize sound profile and feel may find moments of commonality in both switches despite their contrasting compositions. Each switch's specific material characteristics lend to a diverse yet enjoyable usage atmosphere for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Oil King (V2) features a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams, which makes it more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming, but its bottom out force remains unknown. Consequently, users seeking a lighter switch for prolonged use may gravitate towards the Sea Salt Smoothie, while those appreciating a stronger tactile response will find the Oil King (V2) more appealing. Overall, if you're looking for a heavier switch, the Oil King (V2) is the clear choice, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie is better for those who favor lighter actuation forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we find a noticeable difference. The Oil King (V2) features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This distinction caters to different preferences among users: those who favor a deeper, more substantial keystroke may lean towards the Oil King (V2) for its traditional 4 mm travel, while gamers and speed-focused users might prefer the 3.7 mm travel of the Sea Salt Smoothie for its quicker actuation and response time. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one values depth or responsiveness in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Oil King (V2) offers a unique low-pitched auditory experience, characterized by its bassy tones that evoke the sound of a dark chocolate bar snapping. This rich, deeper sound profile provides a mellow atmosphere when typing, making it enjoyable for users who prefer a more subdued acoustic environment. The Sea Salt Smoothie, however, does not have specific sound characteristics listed in the provided details and thus remains a surprise in this aspect. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that the sound experience can be influenced by the keyboard they are housed in and the type of keycaps used, which suggests the Sea Salt Smoothie may have its own acoustic qualities waiting to be discovered.
When discussing feel, the Oil King (V2) shines with a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. The smoothness of these switches is likely enhanced by factory lubrication, allowing typists to glide effortlessly across the keys. This exceptional refined typing experience results in an overall sensation that is both satisfying and comfortable. In contrast, the feel of the Sea Salt Smoothie is not specified, so it is unclear whether it delivers a similar level of smoothness or has distinct tactile characteristics of its own.
Overall, the Gateron Oil King (V2) clearly stands out with its low-pitched, bassy sound and exceptionally smooth feel, providing users with a rich auditory and tactile experience. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is positioned as a medium-weight switch that holds promise but lacks specifics in terms of sound and feel. For newcomers, it's essential to understand that while the Oil King provides a well-defined experience, the Sea Salt Smoothie may offer distinct characteristics worth exploring once put to the test. Ultimately, both switches could cater to different preferences, and trying them out is the best way to discover which fits your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie should be influenced by your specific typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you appreciate a medium-heavy feel and desire a switch that provides a creamy, silky typing experience with a low-pitched, bassy sound reminiscent of dark chocolate snapping, the Oil King (V2) is the clear choice for you. Its buttery smoothness and carefully crafted sound profile can significantly elevate your typing experience, making it ideal for those who want a rich auditory and tactile response. Conversely, if you're looking for a switch that offers a balanced typing experience without the heaviness of the Oil King and delivers a thocky sound profile, you may find the Sea Salt Smoothie to your liking. It presents a cost-effective option without compromising on smoothness, making it perfect for users who prefer a lighter touch and a more casual typing experience. Ultimately, the decision rests on what feels best under your fingers: whether you lean towards the luxurious richness of the Oil King or the satisfying thock of the Sea Salt Smoothie, both switches have their merits that cater to varying typing styles.
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