Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Type L. The Oil King is well-loved for its buttery smoothness and rich sound profile, described as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished. On the other hand, the Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out as the lightest in the series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, characterized as neutral, subdued, feathery, and easy-to-press. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences and typing styles, making them both worthy options to consider. 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
38g
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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Type L both feature nylon top housing, which contributes to a deep and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share this characteristic, the Oil King also boasts a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the Type L features a nylon bottom housing that enhances the overall sound profile with its softer plastic properties.
Despite sharing the same nylon top housing material, the Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Type L exhibit differences in their bottom housing materials. The Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that is characterized by a satisfying thin and higher-pitched tone, contributing to a clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L's nylon bottom housing complements the nylon top housing by adding to the deeper and fuller sound profile of the switch. This results in a balanced sound profile that is both satisfying and pleasant to type on.
In terms of functionality, the top housing and bottom housing of a switch play distinct roles in determining the overall sound and feel when typing. While the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Type L provide a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of their respective housing materials to create a satisfying and immersive sound profile.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both offer a smooth and linear typing experience, but they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Oil King has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Type L has a lower actuation force of 38 grams and a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, which classifies it as a lighter switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions, the Type L would be the better choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Oil King would be the way to go. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, and individuals can choose based on their preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it is evident that both switches provide a consistent user experience in terms of keypress depth. This means that whether you choose the Oil King or the Type L, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, making them equally suitable options for those who prefer a 4 mm travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
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 L 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 offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as having a more neutral and subdued sound, resulting in a dampened and subtle sound signature. Depending on personal preference and other factors like keycaps and keyboard construction, users can choose between the deeper tones of the Oil King or the more moderate sound of the Type L for their ideal auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is praised for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, offering smooth and effortless keystrokes that glide seamlessly across the keys. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While both switches deliver a comfortable typing experience, the Oil King focuses on smoothness and lubricated feel, while the Type L prioritizes light actuation force for ease of use.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch stands out for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile and creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing feel, making it a popular choice for users seeking a smooth and rich typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound along with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, catering to those who prefer a lighter actuation force and minimal resistance during typing. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the Oil King for a deep and buttery experience or the Type L for a lighter and more effortless typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Oil King linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a neutral or subdued sound profile with a feathery or easy-to-press typing feel, then the Type L would be the better option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it’s essential to try them out firsthand to determine which one suits your typing needs best. Ultimately, the decision between the Oil King and Type L comes down to your individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
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