Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the linear switch category, offering smooth keystrokes without tactile feedback. The Oil King is praised for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile, resembling a dark chocolate bar snapping, while the Smoothie Silver boasts a short travel distance for fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. The Oil King is ideal for those who prefer a creamy, silky typing experience with a bassy tone, while the Smoothie Silver is perfect for users seeking lightning-fast actuation and a lighter touch. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Oil King's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing creates a more muted and deeper sound profile. While both materials provide a satisfying typing experience, the Oil King's nylon top housing may be preferred for those who enjoy a slightly rounder sound, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing is ideal for those seeking a more muted typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron Oil King's proprietary INK blend offers a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both bottom housings provide a unique typing experience, the Oil King's INK blend may be more suitable for users who enjoy a sharper sound, while the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing is perfect for those who prefer a deeper and quieter typing sound.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Oil King and Smoothie Silver play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The Oil King's nylon top housing and INK blend bottom housing offer a more vibrant and clacky sound, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top and bottom housing provide a deeper and more muted typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel, but both switches are sure to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver's lighter 45 grams. This means that the Oil King will require more force to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Oil King also comes in heavier at 65 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Oil King for its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while those who enjoy a lighter typing feel may opt for the Smoothie Silver. Both switches offer different experiences based on actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Oil King has a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper, more pronounced keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances but provide slightly different typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a longer or shorter keystroke feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, but it is typically known for a thocky sound, suggesting a unique and satisfying auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is often described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with effortless keystrokes and reduced friction. Conversely, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, but it is known for unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch, indicating a seamless and comfortable typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping and a typing experience characterized by smoothness and a refined finish. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch features a thocky sound and lightning-fast actuation, with unparalleled smoothness and a light touch. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two would depend on whether you prioritize specific sound characteristics or are looking for a particular typing feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, along with a creamy, silky, buttery, or polished feel, then the Oil King may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force, all-POM construction, a thocky sound, lightning-fast actuation, and an unparalleled smoothness with a feather-light touch feel, then the Smoothie Silver might be the better option for your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard experience. So, take these factors into consideration and make the choice that best suits your needs and typing style.
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