Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Oil King and the Wuque Studio WS Brown are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer different experiences to users. The Oil King is a linear switch, known for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the WS Brown is a tactile switch that strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring fatigue-free typing during extended sessions. It offers a familiar and delightful auditory experience that enthusiasts cherish due to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. If you are looking for a switch that provides a smooth and polished feel while typing, the Oil King might be the perfect choice for you. However, if a tactile switch with a comfortable typing experience is what you desire, the WS Brown might be the better option. 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
N/A
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
3.80 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
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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Wuque Studio WS Brown both use nylon as their top housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, users can expect similar sound characteristics from both switches due to the shared nylon top housing.
However, the two switches differ when it comes to their bottom housing. The Oil King utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This thin and clacky sound is often described as satisfying. On the other hand, the WS Brown employs a nylon bottom housing, which, like the nylon top housing, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, users can expect a slightly different sound experience when bottoming out the Oil King compared to the WS Brown.
It is important to note that while the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the Gateron Oil King and the Wuque Studio WS Brown may have similar sound characteristics when unkeying. However, when it comes to pressing down on the switch, users may notice a distinction in the clacky nature of the Oil King due to its proprietary INK blend bottom housing compared to the more absorptive nylon bottom housing of the WS Brown.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are distinct differences. The Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the WS Brown's actuation force is unfortunately unknown. However, the WS Brown does have a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. In contrast, the Oil King has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.
When considering weight, it is important to note that some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, others prefer a stronger push feel to enhance the typing experience, and for them, a switch with a heavier force is more suitable.
Overall, while we do not have specific information on the actuation force of the WS Brown, it can be inferred that it may be on the lighter side due to its medium-light bottom out force. In comparison, the Oil King offers a medium-heavy bottom out force, suggesting a slightly heavier actuation force as well. Therefore, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Oil King, while those looking for a lighter touch could potentially find similar results with the WS Brown.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with 4 mm being the more common choice. However, there is a growing preference for shorter travel distances, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50.
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
The Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched, bassy sound profile. When typing on these switches, they offer a delightful auditory experience reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. Additionally, the Oil King provides a creamy, silky, and buttery feel, as well as a polished finish that enhances the overall smoothness of the typing experience. Users can expect reduced friction, smooth key travel, and effortless keystrokes when using these switches.
On the other hand, information on the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's sound and feel is unavailable. However, it is mentioned that the WS Brown offers a medium-light actuation force and strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring fatigue-free typing during extended sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch stands out for its smoothness, low-pitched, bassy sound, and creamy, silky, and buttery feel. Although there is no information available on the WS Brown tactile switch's sound and feel, it offers a medium-light actuation force and a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation. If the WS Brown switch provides similar characteristics in terms of smoothness and sound profile, users can expect comparable results. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and the WS Brown will depend on individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience and a sound reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, providing a luxurious and satisfying feel to each keystroke.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value a harmonious blend of responsiveness and comfort, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is the perfect option. With its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination, these switches offer a delightful auditory experience that enthusiasts cherish. Additionally, the WS Brown switches provide fatigue-free typing during extended sessions, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched sound, go for the Oil King. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, the WS Brown would be the better choice. Both switches offer smooth and pleasant typing experiences, so you can't go wrong with either option. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision to find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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