Gateron Oil King vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it becomes clear that both have their own unique qualities to offer. The Oil King is highly praised for its smoothness and its satisfying sound profile, often likened to the snap of a dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is known for its straightforward linear feel without any distinctive characteristics. While the Oil King is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Bassy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished', the Black switch does not have any particular standout features. If you are seeking a switch with a smooth feel and a pleasing sound, the Oil King may be the way to go. However, for those who prefer a simple and straightforward linear switch, the Outemu Black could be the better option. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Black switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switch. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the plastic, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Black switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Oil King elicits a duller and rounder sound, the Black switch produces a more clear and resonant sound. Despite these differences, both switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Gateron Oil King's proprietary INK blend offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is satisfyingly clacky. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the nylon top housing. However, the INK blend creates a thinner and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon material contributes to a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite these differences, both bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
When comparing the effects of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound profile of a switch, it becomes apparent that the choice of housing material has a significant impact on the typing experience. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing is more influential in the sound when releasing a key. While the Gateron Oil King and Outemu Black switches may have different top and bottom housing materials, each material brings unique qualities to the switch that contribute to the overall sound profile. Whether it be the softer nylon of the Oil King or the stiffer polycarbonate of the Black switch, both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switch during typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the Oil King is the lighter option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. On the other hand, the Black switch is the heavier choice, with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Oil King would be the more suitable option. Conversely, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the heavier force of the Outemu Black switch more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences for typing force and feedback. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Black linear switches offer a similar experience to the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Oil King comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10.
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 considering the sound profile of the Gateron Oil King linear switch compared to the Outemu Black linear switch, the Oil King stands out for its low-pitched and bassy tones, providing a deep and rich sound during key presses. This gives users a satisfying auditory experience akin to the sound of a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Black switch are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. It is important to note that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the tactile feel of the switches, the Gateron Oil King switch offers a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, boasting a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. This smoothness is attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch, enabling users to glide their fingers across the keys with ease. Conversely, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Black switch is unavailable, making it challenging to draw a direct contrast in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is praised for its superior sound and feel qualities, providing users with a buttery smooth typing experience accompanied by a satisfying low-pitched and bassy sound profile. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Black switch remain unknown, opting for the Oil King switch can likely lead to similarly impressive results. Ultimately, when choosing between these two options, enthusiasts may find the Gateron Oil King switch to be a more defined and enjoyable choice for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between Gateron Oil King linear switches and Outemu Black linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, buttery smoothness, and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King switches may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned with sound profile, the Outemu Black switches may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value the most. Consider testing both switches to see which one feels the best for you.
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