Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g stand out for their unique qualities, both appealing to different types of users. The Oil King (V2), known for its exceptional buttery smoothness, offers a sound profile likened to the satisfying snap of dark chocolate, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a rich tactile experience without a harsh auditory interruption. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g is meticulously engineered for a whisper-quiet typing experience, evoking the soothing sound of gentle raindrops, appealing to typists who value both silence and a light yet satisfying keystroke. While the Oil King (V2) excels in providing a creamy, polished feel, the Silent Sakura caters to users who desire a more subdued auditory environment paired with a balanced actuation force. However, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g both utilize nylon for their top housing, highlighting the characteristics associated with this classic switch material. Nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer, more absorbent qualities compared to harder plastics. This acoustic property is crucial in keyboard switches as it can produce a duller and rounder sound when typing. Consequently, despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the two switches will exhibit a similar auditory signature when pressed, as the top housing behaves cohesively in shaping the sound profile during key releases.
However, the bottom housings of these switches introduce distinct characteristics that create noticeable differences in their overall sound experiences. The Oil King (V2) utilizes a proprietary INK blend that presents a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. This contrasts sharply with the Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom housing, which produces a sharper, crisper sound due to its stiffer structure. While both switches will share some acoustic qualities stemming from the nylon top, the bottom housing's material significantly impacts the typing experience, specifically regarding the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, users can anticipate a more pronounced clack with the Gateron compared to the cleaner, clearer tones of the HMX.
Ultimately, when examining the combined effects of these materials, the different properties of the top and bottom housings will yield contrasting results. Although both switches share a nylon top housing that contributes to similar base sound qualities, the INK blend bottom on the Oil King (V2) offers a unique sharpness that may appeal to users who appreciate a clackier typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom housing favors a more refined and resonant sound. Therefore, while elements of similarity persist, the distinct materials lead to a unique auditory experience when typing on each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Oil King (V2) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which categorizes it as medium-heavy and provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light and ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions due to less fatigue from the lighter pressing requirement. Thus, if you prefer a lighter switch for comfort over long durations, the Silent Sakura is the better option, whereas the Oil King (V2) may appeal to those desiring a heavier feel for tactile feedback. Overall, the Gateron Oil King is the heavier switch, while the Silent Sakura is lighter, leading to distinct typing experiences based on personal preference.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of movement from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you'll achieve similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness between the two switches, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a consistent typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50.
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) switches present a rich, low-pitched tone that is often revered for its deep, bassy qualities. When pressed, these switches produce a sound reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, creating a satisfying auditory experience that resonates a mellow and full-bodied character. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has been engineered for a whisper-quiet typing experience that is subtle and tranquil, likened to gentle raindrops tapping against a window. Therefore, while both switches deliver distinct sound signatures, the Oil King (V2) emphasizes a more pronounced auditory presence, whereas the Silent Sakura aims for a serene, near-silent ambiance.
Regarding feel, the Oil King (V2) excels in delivering a creamy, buttery, and silky tactile experience. The combination of factory lubrication and high-quality materials results in incredibly smooth keystrokes that glide effortlessly, allowing typists to experience a polished and refined touch. This creates an overwhelmingly satisfying sensation with every press. The Silent Sakura - 53g, while renowned for its whisper-quiet operation, does not have a specified tactile description, leaving its specific feel somewhat unknown. However, its 53g bottom-out force suggests it could provide a light yet satisfying keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a softer touch.
In conclusion, if you're drawn to a robust and melodic typing experience, the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches might be your best choice, offering smoothness and a rich sound profile. On the other hand, if you're looking for something quieter with a balanced actuation, the Silent Sakura - 53g could be more suitable, though its tactile feel remains unspecified. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that typists can find a switch that aligns with their desired auditory and tactile characteristics, even if the Silent Sakura switches haven’t been as thoroughly detailed in those areas.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches hinges on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a typing experience characterized by a heavier and more tactile feel, combined with a rich, bassy sound and buttery smoothness, the Gateron Oil King (V2) would be your ideal choice. Its 65g bottom-out force makes it perfect for those who appreciate a more deliberate keystroke and find satisfaction in the deep acoustic profile that offers a luxurious typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a focus on a quiet and undisturbed typing environment, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is the better option. Its 53g bottom-out force allows for swift and easy key presses, making it great for prolonged typing sessions where noise could be a concern, such as in shared workspaces or late-night use. Each switch presents unique benefits, and understanding your personal typing style and needs will help you make the optimal decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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