Gateron Oil King vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Peach. The Gateron Oil King is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its smoothness and sound profile. When using these switches, you'll experience a buttery smoothness that is reminiscent of the satisfying snap of a dark chocolate bar. In terms of sound, they offer a low-pitched, creamy, silky, and bassy profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach is also a linear switch, but what sets it apart is its lightweight nature and silence. These featherlight switches are perfect for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, and the added silencing makes them an excellent choice for those seeking a more subdued typing sound. Categorized as neutral, mild, muted, subtle, and polished, the Outemu Peach offers a unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Outemu Peach both utilize nylon as their top housing material. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, in terms of sound characteristics, users can expect similar results from both the Oil King and the Outemu Peach.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a significant difference between the two switches. The Gateron Oil King features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. Although not overly sharp, this thin and higher-pitched sound is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Outemu Peach utilizes a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This means that the bottom housing material of the Peach contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, much like the top housing.
It is worth noting that the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Oil King or the Outemu Peach, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. So, while the top housing materials contribute to similar sound profiles, the bottom housing materials create different nuances in the overall typing experience between the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Outemu Peach.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it is evident that they have different weight profiles. The Gateron Oil King has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. In contrast, the Outemu Peach has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Peach would be a suitable choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower than that of the Gateron Oil King. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for individuals who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions as it reduces fatigue.
On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing.
Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences. If a lighter typing experience is desired, the Outemu Peach would be the preferable option. However, for those who enjoy a more robust feel while typing, the Gateron Oil King would be the better choice.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Outemu Peach the shorter option between the two.
The shorter travel distance of the Outemu Peach switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. The reduced distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt, lacking the satisfying depth and cushioning of a longer travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and Outemu Peach switches depends on personal preference. If you prioritize a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Outemu Peach with its 3.3 mm travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a traditional feel, the Gateron Oil King with its 4 mm travel distance would suit you better.
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 Peach comes in at $3.40.
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 Gateron Oil King linear switch is best known for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile. When typing on these switches, users can expect a silky sensation as their fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. The sound produced is reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, offering a mellow and rich tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch stands out for its feather-light typing experience and muted sound profile. These switches provide a gentle and subtle typing feel, making them perfect for those who prefer a more approachable and quiet switch. The sound produced is softer and quieter, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch excels in providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile. It offers a seamless and uniform typing sensation, like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch offers a feather-light typing experience with a gentle and subtle feel. Its muted sound profile makes it suitable for shared spaces and minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. While they differ in their specific qualities, those looking for a smooth and refined typing experience can expect similar results from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches provide a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, allowing you to effortlessly glide your fingers across the keys. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a feathery light typing experience and a neutral, muted sound profile, the Outemu Peach linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a mild and subtle typing feel, making them approachable and suitable for shared spaces. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for switch weight, sound profile, and typing feel.
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