Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves enticed by the allure of linear switches, known for their smooth key presses and minimal tactile feedback. Among the popular options are the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte, both heralded for their unique attributes. The Oil King (V2) captivates users with its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, exuding a low-pitched, creamy, and silky character that many users appreciate for a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte offers a super smooth action, utilizing the latest molds from Huano to achieve a balanced sound profile that is neither too quiet nor overly resonant. While both switches provide an enjoyable linear experience, the Oil King (V2) appeals to those seeking a richer auditory sensation, whereas the Strawberry Latte caters to users desiring a more moderate sound profile. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When evaluating the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte, it’s evident that each switch has its unique composition, contributing significantly to its sound profile and tactile experience. The Gateron Oil King (V2) is outfitted with a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's soft plastic property aids in sound absorption, resulting in a rounder auditory output. Conversely, the Huano Strawberry Latte features a top housing made from polyketone (POK) material, which provides a smoother experience due to its low friction coefficient. The difference in materials creates distinctive sound profiles. While the Oil King's nylon top exhales a duller sound, the Strawberry Latte's POK top accentuates a smooth and clacky response, showcasing how the material choice dramatically influences the user's sound experience.
Analyzing the bottom housings reveals another layer of contrast. The Gateron Oil King utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, designed to produce a high-pitched, clacky sound profile. This is a stark contrast to the Strawberry Latte's nylon bottom housing, which, akin to its top counterpart, contributes to a deeper sound. Given that the bottom housing profoundly impacts the key’s bottom-out feel, this difference in material further diversifies their tactile feedback. While the Oil King offers an exhilarating clack from the INK blend, the Strawberry Latte’s nylon bottom provides a fuller, softer conclusion upon keypresses. This stark divergence emphasizes how choice of material not only affects sound but also the tactile response felt during typing.
Despite the differences in material composition, similarities can still surface in the overall performance of these switches. Both the Oil King's nylon top and the Strawberry Latte's nylon bottom provide a foundational sound dampening characteristic, promoting a less harsh auditory environment. In this case, users can achieve a more balanced acoustic result by leveraging the properties of both switches. Thus, while each switch employs differing materials to produce unique sound profiles and tactile experiences, they can still be utilized in combination to attain a harmonious blend of deep and clacky sounds, thus delivering an enjoyable typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Oil King (V2) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which appeals to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte has a much lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who favor lighter switches for extended typing sessions or intensive gaming. Therefore, if you enjoy a light touch while typing, the Strawberry Latte is the better option, whereas if you appreciate a firmer push feel, the Oil King (V2) would suit your needs better. Overall, the Oil King (V2) is heavier, while the Strawberry Latte is lighter, resulting in distinct user experiences based on their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Oil King (V2) features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Latte has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Oil King provides a deeper keypress experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte’s shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers who appreciate quicker response times for rapid actions. As a result, while both switches serve different preferences, it is clear that the Gateron Oil King (V2) offers a longer travel distance, making it the choice for users who enjoy a more profound keystroke, whereas the Huano Strawberry Latte caters to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 (V2) delivers a low-pitched, bassy profile that is reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, offering a rich auditory experience that balances depth with a satisfying keystroke. This low-frequency sound tends to resonate well, creating a warm atmosphere that many find appealing. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte features a balanced sound profile, which is not overly resonant or quiet but strikes a middle ground that prevents distraction while typing. While the precise sound characteristics of the Strawberry Latte aren't fully detailed, it suggests a clean and pleasant auditory experience, appealing to users who prefer a versatile switch without overwhelming sound.
In terms of feel, the Oil King (V2) is praised for its creamy, silky, and buttery smoothness, making it an exceptionally enjoyable switch for prolonged typing sessions. The presence of factory lubrication enhances its performance, enabling users to glide effortlessly across the keys with minimal friction, resulting in a refined and polished typing experience. The tactile feedback is smooth and seamless, creating a sensation of effortless keystroke engagement. The feel of the Strawberry Latte is not described in detail, leaving some ambiguity about its smoothness and general typing experience. However, users can expect a solid performance based on Huano's reputation for quality craftsmanship.
Overall, both switches provide unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Oil King (V2) provides a rich auditory experience and an exceptionally smooth typing feel, making it a favorite for tactile enthusiasts. The Huano Strawberry Latte, while its specific feel is less defined, offers a balanced sound profile that may appeal to those looking for versatility without harshness. While users will undoubtedly enjoy the unique attributes of each switch, the Oil King's defined richness in sound and superior smoothness sets it apart in this comparison. If you prioritize a deep, luxurious experience, go for the Oil King, while the Strawberry Latte may still yield satisfying results for those seeking a well-rounded alternative.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy feel with a bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Oil King (V2) will likely be your ideal option. Its buttery smooth typing experience, characterized by a low-pitched and bassy sound reminiscent of dark chocolate, makes it great for both gaming and typing tasks where control and precision are key. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Strawberry Latte will suit you better. Its super smooth action and balanced sound profile provide a satisfying typing experience without being too quiet or overly resonant, making it perfect for prolonged typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Ultimately, your choice hinges on your desired typing feedback and sound profile, so consider trying both to see which one feels most natural to you.
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