Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the selection can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron Oil King (V2) is widely celebrated for its luxurious, buttery smoothness and a unique sound profile that many liken to the satisfying snap of dark chocolate. This switch embodies a rich and refined auditory experience categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize acoustic aesthetics alongside tactile pleasure. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch stands out for its robust construction, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem that together create a subtly deep sound profile. While it may not boast the same level of finesse as the Oil King, the SU switch is ideal for users seeking durability and a comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sensory experiences and advantages, but let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX SU both employ nylon as a material for their top housings, which provides a foundation for similar acoustic qualities. The use of nylon, a classic housing material in the keyboard switch industry, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile with each keystroke. As both switches share this nylon attribute, users can expect a comparable acoustic experience when typing, as the material's relative softness aids in sound absorption, creating a more muted, rounded auditory signature. This characteristic enhances the overall typing experience by delivering satisfying tonal feedback that many users find appealing.
However, the differences between the Oil King (V2) and the HMX SU become apparent when examining their bottom housings. The Gateron Oil King (V2) utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which produces a sharp and high-pitched clack that contrasts with the softer tones afforded by nylon. This blend results in a unique sound profile that resonates well with users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the HMX SU's bottom housing remains consistent with the top, also composed of nylon, yielding a sound profile that mirrors the depth and roundness of its top housing. This can result in a more uniform auditory experience, though potentially lacking the character and distinctiveness that Gateron’s INK blend provides.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the typing experience, the design intricacies of the Oil King (V2) illustrate how different components work together to influence sound and feel. Even with both switches incorporating nylon in their top housings, the distinct characteristics of each switch's design significantly affect the overall sensory feedback. With the INK blend bottom housing of the Oil King (V2) delivering a crisper, more clacky sound, versus the HMX SU's dual nylon configuration that focuses on a cohesive sound experience, users will find that while both types provide satisfying performance, their auditory nuances diverge significantly due to the differing bottom housing compositions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to a user's personal preference for sound quality and typing feedback.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch present a notable comparison in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to different typing preferences. The Oil King (V2) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX SU offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference in weight indicates that the Oil King (V2) provides a more substantial typing experience, which some users may find satisfying for long sessions, while the lighter HMX SU would be ideal for those seeking comfort during extended use or gaming. As such, users who prefer a heavier feel for tactile feedback should gravitate towards the Gateron Oil King (V2), while those who favor a lighter switch for easier keystrokes might opt for the HMX SU.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there's a notable difference: the Oil King (V2) has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Oil King (V2) the longer switch, providing a more pronounced depth during keystrokes, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the HMX SU can lead to faster response times, which may appeal to gamers or those who favor quick keyactuation. While both switches cater to different preferences in feel and performance, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes depth and feedback or responsiveness and speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU 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) offers a distinctly low-pitched and bassy audio profile that mimics the satisfying snap of dark chocolate. This deeper sound tone is warm and resonant, providing an immersive auditory experience as you type. The richness of the Oil King's sound can evoke a sense of satisfaction, making it a favorite among users who appreciate the acoustic aspect of their keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch's sound profile is not explicitly detailed, leaving an unknown variable for potential users. However, users should consider that the overall sound experience can also fluctuate based on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Oil King (V2) excels with its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished characteristics, ensuring that every keystroke provides an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. This luxurious tactile sensation is likely enhanced by the factory lubrication and specific materials used for the switch, which together create an almost gliding effect as fingers dance across the keys. Conversely, the feel of the HMX SU switches is not specified, which suggests that they may not offer the same curated smoothness or could vary greatly depending on their unique construction.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King (V2) stands out with its captivating sound and outstanding smoothness, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch leaves gaps in its descriptions, particularly concerning sound and feel. Potential users of the SU should investigate further to understand its characteristics better, as its performance may differ despite the subjective qualities of the Oil King being quite favorable.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch will ultimately depend on your personal typing style and the overall experience you seek from your keyboard. If you prefer a more robust and tactile performance with a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Oil King (V2) is an excellent choice. Its creamy, silky, and buttery smoothness creates a typing sensation that feels luxurious, while its low-pitched, bassy sound profile can be quite satisfying, making it perfect for those who appreciate both feel and auditory feedback in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, the HMX SU switch may be more suitable for your needs. Its subtly deeper sound offers a different acoustic experience, and its lighter actuation can enhance speed and ease of typing, particularly for those who tend to type quickly or prefer a less strenuous typing experience. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you—whether it's the weight, sound profile, or smoothness—before making your choice.
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