GATERON Oil King Linear Switch Set
Best linear switches for enthusiasts seeking a smooth, deep-sounding typing experience.
Elevate your mechanical keyboard experience with the GATERON Oil King Linear Switch Set. Designed for DIY enthusiasts, these 5-pin custom switches offer a smooth, linear feel with a satisfyingly deep sound profile. Each switch is factory pre-lubricated for immediate performance and features an ultra-stable POM stem, Nylon PA66 top housing, and an Ink material base. With a 55±5 gf operating force and a lifespan of 60 million keystrokes, they provide exceptional durability and reliability. The set includes 35 switches in a convenient tray that doubles as a lubing station.
$22.75
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
200
/ 6542
#200 in Keyboard Keys & Caps
Price vs Category Average
-47%
Below average
Type
Linear
/ Linear
Who it's for
- Users who demand a stable, wobble-free typing experience
- Typists seeking a smooth, friction-free experience right out of the box
- Enthusiasts craving a deep, satisfying, and premium sound profile
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious builders looking for cost-effective switch options
- Purists who prefer a snappy, non-lubricated feel
- Typists accustomed to the longer travel of standard switches
Performance breakdown
Factory Lubrication
Consistent, high-quality application eliminates the need for manual post-purchase lubing.
Acoustic Profile
Delivers a signature deep, thocky sound that enthusiasts crave.
Stem Stability
Minimal wobble ensures a precise and premium typing experience.
Actuation Feel
The 55gf weighting provides a substantial, fatigue-free linear travel.
Build Durability
Robust housing materials and a 60-million keystroke rating ensure longevity.
DIY Accessibility
The included tray doubles as a functional station for custom builds.
Key Specs
Type
Linear
Operating Force
55±5 gf
Total Travel
4.0 mm Max.
Lifespan
60 million keystrokes (Approximate)
Housing Top Material
Nylon PA66
Housing Base Material
Secret black Ink housing material
Stem Material
POM
Pin Type
5-pin
Features
- Factory pre-lubricated for instant smoothness
- Ultra-stable POM stem design
- Deeper, satisfying sound profile
- Upgraded 3-layer pin for reliability
- Heavier feel than Milky Yellow Pro
- Compatible with MX style keycaps
- Includes tray for lubing station
- 60 million keystroke lifespan
What customers say
The Gateron Oil King Linear Switches are highly praised for their exceptional out of box smoothness, often described as buttery, which minimizes required manual lubrication. Users consistently love the deep, satisfying low pitched sound profile resulting from the unique housing and stem materials. The 20mm long spring delivers a quick, snappy return. While these switches carry a premium price, the consensus is that the superior factory tuning and high quality feel provide excellent value by eliminating extensive modification needs. This product delivers a truly premium typing experience for those seeking immediate performance.
Know before you buy
These are 5-pin switches, which are compatible with most modern hot-swappable mechanical keyboards. If your keyboard only supports 3-pin switches, you can easily clip off the two extra plastic guide pins to make them fit.
No, the Gateron Oil Kings come factory pre-lubricated for a smooth, consistent feel right out of the box. While enthusiasts may choose to add more, they are designed to perform exceptionally well without any additional work.
The Oil Kings offer a slightly heavier operating force of 55±5 gf, providing a more substantial and deliberate typing experience. They are generally considered more premium, offering a deeper sound profile and increased stability due to the POM stem and specialized housing materials.
Yes, these switches feature a standard MX-style cross mount, making them compatible with the vast majority of aftermarket mechanical keyboard keycaps.
The tray serves as secure packaging for shipping, but it is specifically designed to function as a lubing station. It holds the switches firmly in place, making it much easier to open, lubricate, and reassemble them if you decide to customize them further.
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