Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer unique tactile experiences. The Gateron Oil King (V2) stands out with its buttery smoothness and a delightful sound profile akin to a dark chocolate bar snapping, making it a favorite for those seeking a creamy and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches introduce an innovative design featuring ball-bearings, which drastically reduce friction during keystrokes, resulting in an almost surreal smoothness. While the WS Pearls produce a medium-high pitched sound that adds a bit of character to each press, the Oil Kings emphasize a rich, satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two linear switches comes down to personal preference — whether one favors the deep, luscious feel of the Oil Kings or the innovative, clacky nature of the WS Pearls. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King (V2) and Wuque Studio WS Pearl both utilize nylon for their top housing, a material known for its acoustic properties. Nylon, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This inherent quality is particularly valued by typists and gamers alike, as it creates a more muted and rounded auditory experience. Thus, users can expect a similar auditory feedback when utilizing the top housing of both switches, creating a pleasing auditory experience during typing sessions that is characterized by its depth.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge significantly in material composition. The Oil King (V2) features a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which is designed to produce a thin and higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. This contrasts sharply with the WS Pearl's nylon bottom housing, which shares the same acoustic dampening characteristics as its top housing. Consequently, while the Oil King (V2) emphasizes a quick and high-pitched sound with a pronounced bottom-out experience, the WS Pearl continues the deeper and fuller sound signature into its bottom housing as well.
The differentiation in bottom housing materials indicates a varied overall typing experience between the two models. With the Oil King (V2), the clackiness of the INK blend will be more prominent during the actuation of the key, while the WS Pearl will maintain a uniform acoustical profile, enhancing the subdued sound produced by its nylon composition throughout both the top and bottom. Therefore, users seeking a sharper auditory feedback may favor the Gateron Oil King (V2), while those who prefer a more consistent and muted sound signature across their typing experience might lean towards the WS Pearl. The combined effects of their respective housing compositions lead to distinct auditory signatures, despite the similarity in their top housings.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences in both 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, making it a more substantial option for typists who prefer a firmer feel under their fingers. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a significantly lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, suggesting a gentler touch that may be more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. This means that if you favor a lighter switch, the WS Pearl would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a stronger push might lean towards the Oil King (V2). While the bottom out force of the WS Pearl is lighter than the Oil King's, its actuation force remains distinctly lower, which contributes to its overall lighter feel. Consequently, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference for force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.5 mm may seem small, but it can significantly affect the tactile experience and responsiveness of the switches. Those who favor a more traditional feel, with a hearty depth in each keystroke, might prefer the Oil King (V2) for its longer travel distance. Conversely, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers and users seeking quicker response times and a more abrupt actuation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences between depth and responsiveness.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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 (V2) is known for producing a rich and deep tonal quality that resembles the satisfying snap of dark chocolate breaking apart. This sound profile offers a well-rounded experience that many users find enjoyable, especially if they prefer a bass-heavy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl has a distinctly higher-pitched sound profile. It is characterized by sharp, crisp notes that can be described as clacky and marbly, reminiscent of the clean and resonant sounds produced when two solid objects collide. The contrast between the deep richness of the Oil Kings and the bright, lively tones of the WS Pearls makes them appealing to different preferences in sound.
When considering feel, the Gateron Oil King (V2) boasts a buttery smoothness that is often likened to a creamy or silky typing experience. This makes for a delightful tactile encounter with minimal resistance, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Similarly, the WS Pearl switches also offer an exceptionally silky and creamy feel, enhanced by the innovative use of ball bearings to reduce friction during keystrokes. The extremely smooth action of both switches makes them ideal for those seeking seamless typing experiences, though the WS Pearls may edge out in terms of unique friction reduction due to their design.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches excel in providing smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, albeit with distinct sound signatures. The Oil King leans towards a deeper, bassy tonal quality, while the WS Pearl offers a sharper, clackier sound. In terms of feel, they are both creamy and silky, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and subtle nuances in their feels, as both promise a satisfying performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences regarding keystroke feel, sound, and the typing experience you're aiming for. If you appreciate a heavier key press and enjoy a typing experience that feels creamy and silky, the Oil King (V2) is an excellent choice. Its distinctive sound profile, reminiscent of dark chocolate snapping, provides a rich auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a unique, extremely smooth experience and a higher-pitched, more percussive sound, the WS Pearl is likely to suit you better. The innovative use of ball-bearings in the WS Pearl not only minimizes friction during keystrokes but also contributes to its signature clarity and sharpness in sound. Ultimately, assess whether you prioritize a heavier, richer keystroke with the Oil Kings or a lighter, more nuanced experience with the WS Pearls to find which switch aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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