GATERON Oil King V2 5-Pin 55gf Black Linear Switches - Smooth, Long

In this review the GATERON Oil King V2 5-pin 55gf black linear switches are evaluated for mechanical keyboard builders who want a smooth, durable linear option for both typing and gaming. The single biggest reason to buy is the factory pre-lubrication combined with an extended black plated spring that promises long life and a consistent, buttery keystroke. These switches suit DIYers who prefer a creamy yellow stem and a solid 55gf actuation that many customers described as exceptionally smooth with pleasing sound quality.

Key Features

• Original shaft: Uses the Original Gateron Oil King shaft for a consistent linear travel that feels the same press after press.
• Pre-lubricated: Factory self-lubricating construction reduces initial scratchiness and saves time for builders who do not want to hand-lube each unit.
• Durable spring: 20mm extended black plated spring with life rated around 60 million cycles improves longevity for heavy daily use.
• Gold contact: Gold contact design improves oxidation and sulfurization resistance for reliable electrical performance over time.
• Wide compatibility: Compatible with 2-pin, 4-pin, and non-protruding SMD lights and standard MX-style housings for flexible DIY builds.
• Protective packaging: Individual PVC plastic boxes keep each switch safe during storage and protect pins from bending.

Who It's For

The switches are a good match for mechanical keyboard DIY enthusiasts who want a ready-to-install, pre-lubed linear switch with a medium 55gf actuation that performs well for both gaming and typing. Builders who value long spring life and reduced maintenance will appreciate the factory lubrication and gold contacts that address oxidation concerns.

Those assembling hot-swap boards with non-socketed stabilizers or expecting a tactile bump should look elsewhere; these are linear switches and the product notes that they do not support socket hot swapping. If a lightly tactile or clicky feel is required, a different switch type will be a better fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Pre-lubricated housings deliver smooth keystrokes straight out of the box, reducing initial break-in time.
• 55gf actuation and creamy yellow stem provide a refined linear feel good for fast gaming and comfortable typing.
• Gold contact and copper sheet metal reduce corrosion and improve long-term reliability.
• Protective PVC packaging keeps each switch separated to prevent bent pins and damage during storage.

Cons

• Not intended for socket hot swapping on boards that explicitly require hot-swap compatibility.
• Factory lube choices may not match every enthusiast's preferred tuning, so some users may re-lube to taste.

Specifications

Switch type	Linear
Pins	5-pin (compatible with 2-pin and 4-pin layouts)
Actuation force	55gf (5gf)
Total travel	4.0mm
Spring life	20mm extended black plated, rated ~60 million presses
Contact	Gold contact design
Packaging	Individual PVC plastic boxes

Our Verdict

The GATERON Oil King V2 5-pin 55gf black linear switches are a solid value for builders seeking pre-lubed linear performance and long spring life. They deliver a smooth, consistent keystroke with reliable contacts and protective packaging, making them especially good for custom builds where reduced break-in and longevity matter. Those needing hot-swap-only compatibility or a different tactile profile should consider other switch families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these switches pre-lubed?
Yes, they come factory self-lubricated for reduced initial scratchiness and a smoother feel out of the box.

Will these work with RGB underglow or LEDs?
They are compatible with 2-pin, 4-pin, and non-protruding SMD lights, making them flexible for most LED implementations.

Can I use these in hot-swap keyboards?
The product notes that they do not support socket hot swapping in all keyboards, so confirm your board's compatibility before assuming hot-swap use.