Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, two compelling options that stand out are the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Taichi, both linear switches celebrated for their unique characteristics. The Gateron Oil King (V2) is renowned for its irresistibly buttery smoothness and a delightful sound profile that echoes the rich, low tones of a dark chocolate bar snapping—creating a typing experience that feels luxurious and polished. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch captivates users with its high-pitched bottom-out sound, enhanced by a long-pole stem and extended springs, delivering remarkable smoothness and stability with every keystroke. While the Oil King (V2) appeals to those who appreciate a deep, creamy typing experience, the Taichi entices enthusiasts who seek a bright and responsive touch. Both switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, making them excellent choices for various typing styles. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Taichi reveals significant differences in their housing materials that lead to unique auditory experiences. The Oil King (V2) utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its depth and fullness when typing. This choice of nylon, a classic switch material, contributes to a deeper sound profile that absorbs vibrations effectively, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory feedback. In contrast, the Taichi uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is generally stiffer and allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Consequently, users of the Taichi can expect a crisper, more resonant feedback akin to the sound of clear materials often associated with RGB lighting.
Turning to the bottom housing, another layer of nuance emerges in the comparison. The Oil King (V2) features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that delivers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. While this contributes to a "clacky" auditory experience, it contrasts with the Taichi's nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom on the Taichi enhances the switch's sound profile by providing a fuller and deeper auditory signature, aligning with the properties found in its top housing. This divergence exemplifies how these switches utilize different housing materials to create distinct sound profiles, despite the similarities in the quality and nature of the bottom housings.
Overall, while the materials used in the Oil King (V2) and the Taichi differ, the interplay between the bottom and top housings in each switch allows for a balanced sound experience reflective of both their individual characteristics. The nylon in the top housing of the Oil King (V2) imparts a mellow tone that complements the "clacky" sound generated by the INK blend in its bottom. Similarly, the high-pitched qualities of the Taichi’s polycarbonate top housing enrich the sound sculpted by the softer nylon in its bottom housing. Thus, both switches offer distinctive auditory outcomes, influenced by the combination of their respective materials; yet they also provide room for similar audio results through the strategic pairing of different housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Oil King (V2) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This makes it suitable for users who appreciate a heavier feel, offering a more substantial typing experience that can be preferred in both work and gaming environments. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, indicating it is easier to press, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions as it reduces finger fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch is currently unavailable, making it difficult to assess how it performs when pressed fully down. Consequently, while the Oil King offers a stronger overall resistance with both a defined actuation and bottom out force, the Taichi's lightweight actuation suggests a different typing experience that may be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch. Therefore, users looking for a heavier switch should consider the Oil King (V2), while those seeking a lighter option might lean towards the Taichi.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that offers a deeper keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who prefer quicker actuation and potentially faster response times, which can be advantageous for gaming. While both switches serve different preferences, the Oil King (V2) provides a more substantial feel for users who enjoy a hearty depth in their key presses, whereas the Taichi's shorter travel may feel more responsive but could be perceived as abrupt by some. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a deeper travel distance, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is the better choice, while the Bsun Taichi may be preferable for users seeking enhanced speed and efficiency.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 (V2) offers a distinctively low-pitched and bassy auditory experience, akin to the soothing sound of a dark chocolate bar snapping. This low-frequency tone provides a mellow and rich sound profile that enhances the typing experience, making it feel less intrusive and more comforting during extended use. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch is characterized by its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is a result of its long-pole stem and extended springs. This creates a keystroke that emits a sharper and more pronounced sound upon actuation, offering a lively alternative to the deeper tones provided by the Oil Kings. While both switches have their unique sound profiles, personal preference will dictate which experience is more desirable.
When it comes to feel, the Oil King (V2) excels with its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished characteristics. This blend ensures a feelings of effortless gliding over the keys, with minimal resistance during typing, creating a highly enjoyable and fluid keystroke experience. The meticulous design and possible factory lubrication contribute to this buttery smoothness, making it pleasing for users who value a refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the feel of the Bsun Taichi switch remains unspecified, leaving some uncertainty regarding how it compares to the smooth and luxurious tactile experience provided by the Oil Kings. Without detailed information, it's difficult to ascertain how these two switches stack up against one another in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Taichi linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Oil King’s low-pitched, bassy sound alongside its buttery smooth typing experience makes it a favorite for those looking for comfort and richness. Meanwhile, the Taichi's high-pitched sound may appeal to users who prefer a more energetic auditory experience. As there are no specific details on the Taichi's feel, it remains ambiguous how it compares to the Oil King's exceptional smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on an individual's priorities, whether they lean towards a soothing sound and polished typing or a lively auditory feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a switch that provides a medium-heavy tactile response with a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, the Oil King (V2) may be the better choice for you. Its creamy, silky feel delivers a smooth and polished typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and typing tasks where comfort and acoustics are priorities. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its long-pole stem and extended springs, you might find the Bsun Taichi more appealing, especially if you enjoy a more unique auditory feedback while typing. Consider your preferred typing experience and sound profiles when making your decision, and rest assured that both switches offer exceptional quality in their respective domains.
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