Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the TTC Yunhai present two appealing options that cater to different preferences. The Oil King (V2) is celebrated for its extraordinarily smooth keystrokes and a rich sound profile that evokes the satisfying snap of dark chocolate, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a luxurious typing experience. Its characteristics, described as low-pitched, creamy, and buttery, offer a polished feel that enhances overall comfort during extended use. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai stands out for its unique typing experience that combines a deep, rounded sound with an incredibly light actuation force, catering to users who desire a more effortless and gentle touch while typing. This makes the Yunhai ideal for those who prioritize ease and fluidity in every keystroke. While both switches showcase impressive features, they serve distinct typing preferences and needs, making the decision a matter of personal choice. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the TTC Yunhai, the similarities in their top housing are striking. Both switches feature a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer consistency, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, both switches produce a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing, fostering a satisfying and rich sound that many enthusiasts seek in mechanical keyboards. Users looking for an immersive typing experience may find both switches equally appealing in this regard.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly between the two switches. The Gateron Oil King (V2) employs a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, providing a distinctly different audio signature that is characterized by a higher-pitched and clackier sound. This higher-frequency tone adds a sharpness that contrasts with the fullness of the nylon top, leading to a unique sound profile. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai adheres to the same nylon material for its bottom housing as it does for its top, resulting in a more consistent profile across the switch as a whole. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a sound that mirrors the deep and fuller tones of the top, reinforcing the overall auditory experience while eliminating the pronounced clack typically associated with the Gateron housing.
The differences in housing materials between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the TTC Yunhai directly influence the users' overall experience. The combination of a nylon top with a proprietary INK blend bottom in the Oil King provides a more dynamic sound landscape, subtly separating the auditory characteristics of the two housings. By contrast, the use of nylon for both parts in the Yunhai leads to a more uniform sound profile where the qualities of sound and feel are harmonious. Therefore, while the top housings yield similar results in terms of deeper sound, the bottom housings create a notable divergence, ultimately affecting the typing experience and auditory pleasure derived from each switch.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King (V2) and the TTC Yunhai linear switches present a clear contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Oil King (V2) requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that appeals to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai is considerably lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter feel makes it an excellent choice for those who type or game for extended periods, as it requires less effort to press the keys. Thus, for users prioritizing a lighter force for comfort during long sessions, the Yunhai is the preferred option, while the Oil King (V2) offers a stronger push for those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces reflects these preferences, ensuring users can select a switch that aligns with their typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, it is clear that the Oil King (V2) offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Yunhai features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm can significantly impact user experience; gamers may favor the Yunhai for its quicker response time, as shorter travel distances can facilitate faster actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more tactile and substantial feel when typing may prefer the Oil King (V2) due to its greater depth. Overall, if you're looking for responsiveness, the Yunhai is the way to go, whereas the Oil King (V2) caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced travel feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched, bassy resonance, providing a rich and mellow auditory experience akin to the satisfying snap of dark chocolate. This deep sound tends to be pleasant without being jarring, making it suitable for both typing and gaming without causing auditory fatigue. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch's sound characteristics remain unknown, leaving an open question about how its acoustic qualities compare to the Oil King. However, given the variation of sound influenced by keyboard build and keycap selection, it’s essential to consider that the Yunhai may also exhibit a distinctive sound profile that could appeal to those seeking a different auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Oil King (V2) delivers an outstandingly smooth typing experience described as creamy, silky, and buttery. The factory lubrication elevates the overall sensation, reducing resistance and providing a polished keystroke journey. Typists can easily glide across the keys, making it ideal for long sessions of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the feel of the TTC Yunhai is not specified, leaving the tactile sensation during use uncertain. If the Yunhai's design encompasses similar manufacturing standards, it may yield a smooth typing experience as well, but without further details, one cannot definitively assess how it might compare to the Oil King.
Overall, both the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch offer their unique experiences, particularly with the Oil King's well-defined sound and exceptional feel. While the Oil King excels in auditory depth and a refined typing sensation, the unknown attributes of the Yunhai leave an intriguing space for discovery. Newcomers may gravitate toward the Oil King for its proven smoothness and rich sound, while the potential of the Yunhai could offer something different for those open to exploration. Ultimately, those two switches represent distinct choices in the linear switch category, emphasizing the diversity available to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you find yourself drawn to a heavier key feel and appreciate a deep, rich sound profile akin to snapping dark chocolate, the Oil King (V2) would be a fitting choice. Its buttery smoothness and medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams can enhance typing precision for those who enjoy a more tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, more effortless keystroke with a less intrusive sound profile, the TTC Yunhai, with its 50 grams of bottom-out force, might suit your needs better. This switch caters to typists who desire a gentle typing experience, characterized by its deep and rounded sound, allowing for less fatigue during long typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you favor the satisfying resistance of heavier switches or the understated grace of light ones, making both options appealing depending on your unique typing style and sound preferences.
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