Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both stand out as impressive linear switch options. The Oil King is favored for its buttery smoothness and dark chocolate snapping sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate a low-pitched, creamy, and bassy typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° offers a revolutionary design with self-padding and dual-rail structure that provides exceptional smoothness, stability, and noise reduction for a soft and elastic typing feel. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so deciding between them will ultimately come down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature different housing materials for their top housings. The Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Oil King offers a duller and rounder sound, the Zero Degree 0° provides a more clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of bottom housings, the Gateron Oil King uses a proprietary INK blend material that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° features a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the nylon top housing of the Oil King. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which is influenced by the material it is made of.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom of the Gateron Oil King and Zero Degree 0° may differ, the overall typing experience may still be similar. This is because each housing material brings unique qualities to the switch that combine to create a specific sound and feel. Whether it's the softer, absorbent qualities of nylon or the stiffer, clear qualities of polycarbonate, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a distinct sound profile.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch with 45 grams. This means that the Oil King will require slightly more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Oil King also has a higher measurement of 65 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an unknown bottom out force. The Oil King is considered medium-heavy in terms of actuation and bottom out force, while the Zero Degree 0° remains unclear. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Zero Degree 0° with its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Oil King for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Zero Degree 0° has a shorter travel distance compared to the Oil King. The 0.4 mm may not seem like a lot, but it can make a noticeable difference in the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a quicker, more responsive keystroke may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°, while those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Oil King. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy tones, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile during key presses. In comparison, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch's sound profile is not specified. However, both switches may produce a satisfying sound depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is praised for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These descriptors indicate a smooth and effortless keystroke, providing a luxurious sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch's feel is not specified. Despite this, users can expect a high level of smoothness and stability from this switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a rich and mellow sound profile, coupled with a silky and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch provides unparalleled smoothness and stability while reducing noise. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and depending on personal preference, users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option. If smoothness and a refined typing experience are what you're seeking, both switches are likely to deliver similar results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched or bassy sound profile, the Oil King may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and prioritize a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° may be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve. Both switches offer unique features and benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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