Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Oil King and the SP-Star Duck. Starting with the Oil King, these linear switches are highly regarded for their smoothness and unique sound profile, often described as reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. With categories such as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished, the Oil King provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile feel, perfect for those seeking a gentler typing experience. The Duck switches are known for their clean and crisp sound profile, with categories like neutral, mild, buttery, and polished. While these general descriptions can give you a sense of what to expect, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond the generalities so you can make the best decision based on your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the SP-Star Duck have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual effect.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Oil King employs its proprietary INK blend, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This creates a satisfying clacky sound that is not overly sharp. Similarly, the Duck uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Both bottom housings uphold the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and impactful bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings differ between these two switches, the qualities of each housing material are split accordingly. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the sound when releasing a key is primarily influenced by the top housing. This distinction allows for variations in sound profiles depending on the switch's housing materials.
It is important to note that if a transparent housing is preferred, the use of polycarbonate is more likely in both the top and bottom housings. This is particularly advantageous for those who desire the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the visual effect. While the Gateron Oil King and the SP-Star Duck may have their unique housing materials, they both provide similar results in terms of sound and functionality, albeit with slight variations in sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, several distinctions can be made. The Gateron Oil King switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the exact force for the Duck switch is unavailable. However, both switches have a similar medium feel when it comes to their bottom out force, with the Oil King measuring at 65 grams and the Duck at 58 grams.
Considering weight is important for different preferences. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Oil King switch would be ideal as the actuation force is relatively low. This lighter weight allows for more extended periods of typing, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals desiring a more substantial push feel for a more satisfying typing experience may lean towards the Duck switch. Although the exact actuation force is unknown, its medium bottom out force suggests a slightly heavier operation compared to the Oil King.
In summary, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force but only slightly heavier when it comes to bottom out force. The SP-Star Duck tactile switch, while lacking a specified actuation force, offers a medium-bottom out force. Therefore, depending on personal preferences, both switches provide comparable results, with the Oil King being slightly lighter overall.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a keyboard switch, as it determines the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. In this case, both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when using either switch, you can expect to have a similar tactile experience, with the keys traveling the same distance from top to bottom. Therefore, whether you opt for the Gateron Oil King or the SP-Star Duck, you can achieve consistent and comfortable typing experiences with these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 known for its low-pitched and bassy profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile with no particular emphasis on any specific frequency range. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, as if your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys and melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the switch's polished finish and reduced friction contribute to a sleek and refined typing experience. Similarly, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means that these switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in seamless and effortless typing sensation.
To summarize, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is best known for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched, bassy sound profile reminiscent of snapping dark chocolate. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is praised for its gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. Both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience, making them suitable for various preferences and purposes. While the sound and feel qualities may have some differences, they both share the buttery and polished characteristics, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron Oil King switches are an excellent choice. These switches are known for their buttery smoothness and low-pitched, bassy sound profile, resembling the snap of a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches are a perfect match. With a medium bottom out force, these switches offer a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. Their feel can be described as mild, buttery, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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