Changelog
- Updated Oct 03, 2025: Our 1.0.1 Test Bench Update adds clearer terminology and new measurements to our Keystrokes test with minor refinements to our Compatibility and Illumination tests. See the full changelog.
- Updated Nov 06, 2023: Review published.
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Popular Keyboard Switch Comparisons
Gateron Oil King
Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Oil King switches are both linear switches. Both switches come pre-lubed from the factory and are well-known for their smoothness and low-pitched sound profiles out of the box. The Ink Black V2 switches have a slightly rounder, more resonant sound. The Oil Kings have a sharper sound and a marginally more lightweight actuation, but the difference is too small to be very noticeable. Note that both switches have dark housings, which significantly limits the brightness of any RGB lighting. However, the Ink Black V2 housings have a smokey finish, making them a bit better for letting out light than the Oil Kings, which are opaque.
Test Results
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Design
Performance
Keystrokes
Feel
Linear
Initial Force
41gf
Peak Tactile Force
N/A
Actuation Force
54gf
Bottom-Out Force
67gf
Actuation Distance (Pre-Travel)
2.4 mm
Bottom-Out Distance
3.9 mm
8.2
Factory Smoothness
Scratchy Factor
10.0
Mid Actuation Peak Noise
-70.6 dB
Mid Actuation Peak Frequency
1,052 Hz