Gateron Oil King vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Oil King and the Gateron Type S, both linear switches. The Oil King is praised for its buttery smoothness and rich sound profile likened to a snapping dark chocolate bar, with descriptors such as 'Creamy' and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Type S stands out for its innovative factory lubing techniques that result in a pleasingly neutral yet deep acoustic experience, coupled with a weightier 65g bottom-out keystroke, categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a smoother feel or a weightier keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and Gateron Type S have similar nylon top housings, both offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Oil King also features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Type S uses a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the top housing.
While both switches share the benefits of nylon top housings in producing a deeper and fuller sound, the Gateron Oil King distinguishes itself with its unique INK blend bottom housing that adds a distinct clacky sound to typing. Alternatively, the Gateron Type S utilizes a consistent nylon material for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a more uniform sound profile throughout typing. This difference in bottom housing material may provide varying tactile feedback and sound experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and Gateron Type S housing materials depends on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience. Those who prefer a sharper, clacky sound may lean towards the Oil King with its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, while individuals seeking a more consistent and uniform sound may opt for the Type S with its nylon top and bottom housings. Ultimately, both switches provide quality sound profiles and tactile feedback, making them suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have the same actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in terms of weight. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience when using either of these switches. The actuation force is the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press the key all the way down. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience the user is looking for.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel before the key actuates. This can result in a consistent typing experience across both switches. Despite having the same travel distance, the Gateron Oil King and Gateron Type S linear switches may have other features or characteristics that differentiate their overall feel and performance. However, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Oil King comes in at $6.50, whereas the Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, the Oil King is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, resembling a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the Type S offers a more neutral and subdued sound experience, providing a pleasing balance leaning towards a deeper acoustic tone. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the richer sound of the Oil King or the more subtle sound of the Type S, keeping in mind that other factors such as keyboard type and keycaps will also play a role in the overall sound produced.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Oil King is renowned for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with minimal resistance. The factory lubrication and specific materials used in the Oil King contribute to its exceptional typing feel, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Type S switch is not currently available. However, based on the innovative design and contemporary factory lubing techniques of the Type S, users can expect a similarly smooth and refined typing experience as the Oil King, catering to those who prefer a weightier keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Oil King provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a creamy and silky typing experience, the Type S offers a more neutral and subdued sound signature with a weightier keystroke feel. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, depending on their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams and enjoy a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a creamy, silky, buttery feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a similar bottom-out force but lean towards a more neutral, subdued sound profile and appreciate a smooth, polished typing experience, then the Gateron Type S linear switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Oil King and Type S switches comes down to your personal preference in sound and typing feel.
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