Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, two noteworthy contenders stand out: the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Oil King (V2) captivates users with its buttery smoothness and a unique sound profile that resembles the rich snap of dark chocolate, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize a luxurious tactile experience. With its low-pitched, creamy, and polished characteristics, the Oil King (V2) offers a delightful blend of smooth keystrokes and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the WS POM+ makes its mark with an all-POM construction that contributes to an unparalleled typing experience. Its deep, thock sound signature and equally buttery-smooth keystroke provide a distinctive feel that appeals to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory response. While both switches excel in their own right, offering unique attributes that cater to different preferences, the decision ultimately comes down to individual typing style and sound preference. 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
45g
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
3.60 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, the material compositions of their top housings reveal both similarities and differences that contribute to their overall acoustic characteristics. The Oil King (V2) features a nylon top housing, well-known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This soft plastic's inherent properties lead to sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM top housing, which also generates a pleasing but distinct sound profile that leans towards the deeper and relatively more muted spectrum. While both materials contribute to a lower sound signature, they achieve this through different approaches—nylon muffles sharper frequencies, while POM maintains clarity with a unique tonal quality.
Examining the bottom housing of both switches reveals more pronounced differences that shape the acoustic output significantly. The Gateron Oil King (V2) is equipped with a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that delivers a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile. This quality may create a more lively feel when bottoming out the switch, adding a fun dynamic for users who enjoy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ also showcases a POM bottom housing, producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. The absence of sharpness and the focus on richness in the WS POM+'s bottom housing aligns it closely with the tonal characteristics of its top housing, providing a smoother auditory experience when compared to the sharper clackiness of the Oil King.
In summary, the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ lead to distinct auditory profiles when the switches are engaged. The Oil King's nylon top produces a rounder sound combined with the clackiness of its INK blend bottom, leading to a more pronounced sound experience overall. Conversely, while the WS POM+ has a more muted output from both housings, its use of POM in both the top and bottom creates an anodyne switch feel. Users seeking a blend of softer sound qualities may appreciate the Gateron switch for its unique high-pitched traits, while those preferring a more uniform and deep sound will find satisfaction in the WS POM+. Both switches, despite their material differences, can provide engaging experiences based on personal preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Oil King (V2) features an actuation force of 55 grams, which is heavier than the WS POM+, with its actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Oil King (V2) more suitable for users who prefer a substantial typing experience, while the lighter 45 grams of the WS POM+ caters to those who value comfort during extended usage, such as typing or gaming for long periods. In terms of bottom out force, the Oil King (V2) again surpasses the WS POM+, with a bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the WS POM+'s 55 grams. Thus, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is the heavier switch overall, ideal for typists who enjoy a firmer key feel, whereas the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offers a lighter touch, making it preferable for those seeking a more effortless keystroke experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, it is clear that the Oil King (V2) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS POM+ measures at 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm positions the WS POM+ as the shorter option, which may provide gamers with a quicker response time preferred for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Oil King (V2), with its more traditional travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced key press, offering a deeper sensation that some find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a more substantial feel during typing or gaming sessions.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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) linear switch delivers a low-pitched and bassy auditory experience, akin to the satisfying snap of a dark chocolate bar. This sound profile is characterized by a deeper, mellower tone that resonates with a richness often associated with bass-heavy sounds. The auditory quality of the WS POM+ linear switch is currently unknown, yet the delightful description of its keystroke experience suggests a unique atmospheric signature that could be appealing in its own right. While users may favor the Oil King for its deep, resonant tones, the characteristics of the WS POM+ remain a point of curiosity.
When considering the feel, the Oil King (V2) excels with its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished sensations that create a truly effortless typing experience. This smoothness is largely due to the factory application of lubricant and the particular materials used in the switch's construction, allowing fingers to glide fluidly across the keys without hindrance. In contrast, there is no specific description available for the tactile feel of the WS POM+ switch, leaving its performance in this regard largely undefined. Given the Oil King's established buttery smoothness, it may serve as a reliable standard for those who prioritize a refined typing feel until more information about the WS POM+ can be gathered.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch stands out with its deep, bassy sound and outstandingly smooth typing experience, making it a strong contender for those seeking both auditory pleasure and tactile satisfaction. The WS POM+ linear switch piques interest with its promise of an unparalleled typing experience, but lacks detailed descriptors for its sound and feel. As a result, while the Oil King sets a firm benchmark in both categories, the WS POM+ remains an enticing option that warrants further exploration to discover its full potential.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences regarding feel, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy actuation with a deep, rich sound that evokes the sensation of snapping dark chocolate, the Oil King (V2) could be your ideal choice. Its creamy, silky, and buttery keystrokes provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience that many find satisfying for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 55 grams and enjoy a more pronounced thock when typing, then the WS POM+ might be the better fit for you. Its all-POM construction ensures a unique typing experience that emphasizes tactile feedback while delivering polished and effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, consider what you value more in your keyboard experience: the rich, bassy goodness of the Oil Kings or the refined, satisfying thock of the WS POM+. By weighing these factors, you'll be better positioned to select the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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