Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that users often consider are the Gateron Oil King and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The Oil King is highly regarded for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile that is often described as reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. It is categorized with adjectives like low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its innovation, featuring a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Its type feel is silky smooth, but not overly polished. Categorized with descriptors like subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may make them appealing to different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches differ in their choice of housing materials. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, generating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the use of translucent polycarbonate is particularly beneficial if RGB lighting is intended.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Oil King employs a proprietary INK blend. This unique blend offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear uses a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the nylon top housing. The softness of nylon enables it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
When a switch utilizes different housing materials for its top and bottom, the characteristics of each material impact different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. Pressing down on the switch primarily reveals the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Oil King and the Semi-Silent Linear may have contrasting housing materials, their overall sound profiles are influenced differently based on which housing material plays a dominant role during specific actions.
Weight
When considering the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. In terms of weight, the Oil King is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 55 grams compared to the unavailable grams of the Semi-Silent Linear. This suggests that the Oil King may provide a slightly easier typing experience in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, both switches have a relatively similar bottom out force, with the Oil King at 65 grams and the Semi-Silent Linear at 62 grams. This indicates that when it comes to fully pressing down a key, users can expect a similar level of resistance from both switches. For those who prefer a lighter switch to type for extended periods, the Oil King may be the preferable choice. On the other hand, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Semi-Silent Linear, considering its slightly heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference in length. The Oil King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Oil King falls into the more typical range with its 4 mm travel distance. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a slightly shallower travel distance at 3.7 mm. This shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. By opting for the shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear, gamers can achieve quicker key presses. However, it is worth noting that some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on keys, the Oil King's longer travel distance may be the more suitable choice. Overall, both switches offer distinct travel distances that cater to different preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is well-regarded for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics. These switches offer a more mellow and rich sound profile during key presses, resembling the deep and smooth tones of a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is described as subdued and neutral in sound. While not completely silent, it produces a more dampened and subtle sound when pressed. This switch strikes a middle ground, with a moderate sound profile suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These switches are known for their smooth and buttery feel, achieved through the application of lubricant at the factory or specific materials used. When typing on these switches, users can expect a gliding sensation, with effortless and uniform keystrokes. Similarly, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished in feel. It provides a gentle typing experience with a safe and approachable middle-ground feel, making it suitable for most users. The switches are super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, which adds a liveliness to the typing experience. The polished finish of these switches further contributes to a sleek and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer subjective qualities that are appealing to different users. The Oil King is best known for its low-pitched and bassy sound, paired with a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is characterized by its subdued and neutral sound, along with a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished feel. While they have their unique characteristics, users can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences and specific requirements.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience, like gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a more subdued, neutral sound profile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be more suitable. These switches provide a silky smooth feel with a semi-silent topping-out sound, while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Whether you prioritize a rich, low-pitched sound or a more subtle, dampened sound, both switches offer options to suit your preferences. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and which factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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