Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that promise unique tactile experiences and sound profiles. The Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat are both exceptional linear switches, but they cater to different preferences. The Oil King (V2) stands out for its buttery smoothness and satisfying sound reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, delivering a polished and low-pitched audio profile. This switch is an excellent choice for those who prioritize a creamy and silky feel while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat, equipped with Ly stems, offers an equally smooth typing experience, though it boasts a more resonant sound profile that can enhance the auditory pleasure of keystrokes. Whether you lean towards the rich, bassy qualities of the Oil King (V2) or the inviting resonance of the Tomcat, each switch presents unique advantages for your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat utilize distinct materials for their respective top housings, leading to noticeable differences in sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Oil King (V2) features a nylon top housing, which is praised for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer composition. This results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Tomcat employs a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its stiffness and translucency. This material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it particularly appealing for users who appreciate clear and resonant keypresses. Additionally, the polycarbonate's clarity is advantageous for RGB lighting setups, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches shift, as they now both utilize nylon in their compositions. The Oil King (V2) uses a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which contributes to a pointed yet satisfying high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Tomcat's nylon bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of the Oil King's top housing, providing a deeper and rounder sound profile. This difference in sound production suggests that while the Tomcat bottom housing shares material with the Oil King's top housing, the nuances of each switch are ultimately defined by how these materials interact.
Overall, the contrasting top housing materials of the Oil King (V2) and Tomcat create unique typing experiences, but both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, unifying their characteristics. This blend of configurations implies that the typing experience will be multifaceted; users will encounter the full-bodied depth of nylon in the keys' bottoms while enjoying the sound intricacies brought about by the differing top materials. Consequently, while users of both switches will ultimately face diverse auditory outcomes, the nylon elements will provide a grounding experience, linking the two switches in terms of tactile feedback and resonance dynamics.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Oil King (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy and appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, positioning it as medium-light and making it a better option for those who appreciate easier keystrokes, particularly for extended typing sessions or gaming. While both switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, the Tomcat is the lighter choice, catering to users who benefit from reduced finger fatigue during long usage. The Oil King (V2), with its stronger resistance, may be better suited for users who enjoy a more tactile and deliberate key press.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance may influence user preference based on their typing or gaming style. The Oil King (V2), with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel and feedback, appealing to those who prefer a deeper and more tactile experience. In contrast, the Tomcat's 3.6 mm travel distance allows for quicker key actuation, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. Thus, while the Oil King (V2) is the longer of the two, the Tomcat offers a more responsive option for users who favor a shallower travel. Overall, users prioritizing depth should opt for the Oil King (V2), while those valuing speed may prefer the Tomcat.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50, whereas the Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99.
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) linear switch stands out with a low-pitched and bassy profile that evokes the warmth of a dark chocolate bar snapping. This low-frequency sound provides a rich and mellow tone during keypresses, creating a pleasant auditory experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch does not have any specific sound characteristics detailed, which leaves its auditory performance uncertain in comparison to the Oil King. However, every switch's sound is influenced by additional factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, which means one could achieve a better or different sound profile regardless of the switch type.
In terms of feel, the Oil King (V2) excels with its creamy, silky, and buttery characteristics, providing a remarkably smooth and refined typing experience. The combination of lubricated components and high-quality materials results in a polished sensation, allowing the fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys. The Tomcat's feel is unspecified, which means it may not match the inherent smoothness described with the Oil King (V2). Given that smoothness is a key feature in switches, one might find the Oil King’s exceptional tactile experience hard to rival unless the Tomcat utilizes similar quality materials or lubricants.
Overall, the Gateron Oil King (V2) appears to dominate in both sound and feel with its distinct low-pitched sound and buttery smoothness, offering an enriching typing experience. Meanwhile, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is left with some unknown attributes that prevent a direct comparison. If the Tomcat’s performance in these areas were similarly refined, it could potentially provide a comparable experience, but until more specifics are known, the Oil King (V2) undoubtedly seems to be the more appealing option for enthusiasts seeking a high-quality linear switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and ergonomic needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy keystroke with a richer, bassy sound profile that resembles the comforting snap of dark chocolate, the Oil King (V2) may be the right fit for you. Its creamy, silky, and buttery feel translates to a smooth typing experience that many users find satisfying, especially during extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with less resistance, the Bsun Tomcat's medium-light bottom-out force offers a quick and smooth keystroke, making it ideal for fast typists or those who want to reduce finger fatigue. While the Tomcat doesn't have as rich a sound profile, its focus on a resonant, clean experience may appeal to those who prioritize speed and agility over auditory feedback. Therefore, your choice should align with what aspect of typing feels most enjoyable and comfortable for you.
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