Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Oil King and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer distinct features that set them apart. The Oil King switch is known for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch combines innovation with visual aesthetics, featuring a light-diffusing column that enhances RGB visuals. It offers a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, different from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. While the Oil King switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the WS Morandi switch offers a more muted and subdued sound. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond the 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in their composition and sound profile. The Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the WS Morandi features a POM top housing that produces a unique and pleasing sound. POM housings tend to create a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. Therefore, the Oil King's nylon top housing offers a different sound experience compared to the WS Morandi's POM top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gateron Oil King's proprietary INK blend offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This characteristic is often described as clacky, providing a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the WS Morandi's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. While both bottom housings may differ in sound, they both offer unique qualities to the overall typing experience. Therefore, users can expect distinct sound profiles when using the Gateron Oil King and the WS Morandi.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be split between the top and the bottom. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Although the Gateron Oil King and the WS Morandi may have different materials for their top and bottom housings, the distinction lies in the specific characteristics each housing offers. Therefore, users can expect variations in sound and feel depending on the switch used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are a few key differences. The Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the WS Morandi's actuation force is not available. However, both switches have a bottom out force, with the Oil King being slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the WS Morandi's 60 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. For these users, the Oil King with its medium-heavy actuation force and slightly heavier bottom out force may provide a satisfactory experience. On the other hand, those who desire a more substantial typing sensation or a stronger push feel may prefer options with heavier forces.
While the actuation force of the WS Morandi is unknown, its medium bottom out force of 60 grams suggests it falls within a similar range as the Oil King in terms of overall typing experience. Thus, individuals seeking comparable results to the Oil King may find satisfaction with the WS Morandi due to its similar bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for the actuation force and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches offer a decent amount of travel distance, the WS Morandi provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. This makes it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Gateron Oil King with its longer travel distance may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Oil King and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches offer a low-pitched tone. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. The Oil King is described as having a slightly bassy sound, resembling the rich "snap" of a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the WS Morandi is said to have a more subdued sound profile, producing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. Additionally, the WS Morandi is also described as thocky, providing a deep, satisfying sound during key presses. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Oil King and the WS Morandi switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Oil King is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, emphasizing the smooth and fluid keystroke experience it provides. This is due to the application of lubricant during the manufacturing process, resulting in effortless keystrokes that glide across the keys. Similarly, the WS Morandi is also described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide a seamless and uniform typing sensation, thanks to their polished finish and smooth key travel. This could be attributable to the factory lubing or specific materials used in their construction.
Based on the available information, both the Gateron Oil King and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches offer similar sound profiles with their low-pitched tones, giving a bass-heavy and mellow sound during key presses. In terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes and a seamless typing sensation. While the Oil King is described as having a slightly bassy sound, and the WS Morandi offers a more subdued and thocky sound profile, the differences between the two switches in terms of sound are subtle. It's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard board and keycap choices when determining the ideal switch for your needs. Overall, both switches are highly regarded for their smoothness and quality performance, providing a delightful typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smoothness and a dark chocolate bar snapping sound profile, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a slightly more muted sound profile and a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is ideal. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile and offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the typing experience you are looking for. Happy typing!
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