Gateron Oil King vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Oil King and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience. The Oil King is praised for its buttery smoothness and deep sound profile, while the Purple Star is highlighted for its all-POM construction and light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists. While the Oil King offers a bassy and creamy feel, the Purple Star provides a mild and easy-to-press experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and KTT Purple Star switches exhibit distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Purple Star features a POM top housing that produces a unique and pleasing sound with a deeper and relatively muted profile. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the difference in top housing material leads to varying sound qualities.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Oil King and Purple Star switches play a significant role in their sound profile as well. The Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, adding a distinct character to the typing experience. In comparison, the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star contributes to its pleasing and unique sound profile, with a deeper and more muted tone. These differences in bottom housing material further differentiate the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, while the Gateron Oil King and KTT Purple Star switches offer similar qualities in terms of providing a satisfying typing experience, their housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profile. The combination of nylon top housing and INK blend bottom housing in the Oil King results in a fuller, deeper sound with a hint of clackiness, while the POM top and bottom housing of the Purple Star delivers a unique, muted sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for typing sound and feel, both switches offer distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Oil King has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches means that users looking for a lighter touch may prefer the Purple Star, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Oil King. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience and can cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has a shorter travel distance compared to the Oil King. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Purple Star with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Oil King. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, catering to individuals with unique preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Oil King comes in at $6.50, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch also offers a low-pitched tone, which is more neutral in signature. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. If you are looking for a switch with a darker and more bass-heavy sound, the Oil King may be the better choice.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Oil King switch is beloved for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These descriptors indicate a smooth and effortless key press, offering a luxurious sensation when typing. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance and light actuation force. If you prefer a switch that offers a more pronounced and luxurious feel, the Oil King would be the way to go, whereas the Purple Star would be ideal for those seeking a more comfortable and light typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Oil King and KTT Purple Star linear switches have their distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a rich, bass-heavy sound and a creamy, polished typing experience, the Oil King switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild typing feel, the Purple Star switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a creamy, silky, or buttery typing experience with low-pitched and bassy sound profiles, then the Gateron Oil King may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a mild, easy-to-press typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Purple Star may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you prioritize.
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