Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Oil King to the Gateron Type A linear mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Oil King stands out for its smoothness and rich sound profile, with descriptors like 'Creamy', 'Buttery', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" is praised for its innovative design and factory lubing techniques, offering a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum, with descriptors such as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and Gateron Type A both feature nylon top housing materials, providing a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made from harder plastics. However, the Oil King stands out with its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is satisfyingly clacky. In contrast, the Type A sticks with a nylon bottom housing, which still contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, but lacks the distinctive characteristics of the INK blend.
While both the Gateron Oil King and Type A utilize nylon top housing for a similar typing experience, the distinction lies in their bottom housings. The Oil King's INK blend bottom housing creates a unique sound that is described as clacky and relatively high-pitched, adding a different dimension to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, aligning with the classic switch housing material. This difference in bottom housing materials can have a noticeable impact on the sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the Gateron Oil King and Type A offer a similar typing experience with their nylon top housing. However, the bottom housing materials diverge in their impact on the sound profile. The Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing provides a pointed and clacky sound, while the Type A's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in bottom housing materials showcases how the specific material used can influence the overall sound profile of a switch, ultimately catering to different preferences for typing enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we can see that the Oil King is heavier in both aspects. The Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is lighter in comparison, being classified as medium-light. This means that the Oil King will require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Type A switch. Depending on personal preference, some users may appreciate the lighter touch of the Type A for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the more substantial typing experience offered by the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Oil King. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, it can be said that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect consistent results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Overall, the Oil King and Type A linear switches offer a uniform typing experience with their 4 mm travel distance.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Oil King leaning towards a darker, chocolatey tone while the Type A provides a more versatile and moderate sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is praised for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. This is achieved through factory lubrication and specific materials, offering users a seamless and effortless typing experience. The Gateron Type A linear switch, however, does not have specific descriptors for feel, suggesting that it may offer a more standard typing feel without the added smoothness and lubrication found in the Oil King switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch excels in providing a low-pitched, bassy sound profile along with a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound signature, with unknown qualities in terms of feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, both switches can offer a unique and satisfying typing experience, with the Oil King emphasizing smoothness and richness in sound and feel, while the Type A provides a more versatile and moderate sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a creamy, silky, buttery, or polished typing feel, then the Oil King switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and appreciate a neutral or subdued sound profile with a smooth typing experience, the Type A switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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