Gateron Oil King V2 Linear Switch 55g - Smooth Pre-Lubed Switches

Our review of the Gateron Oil King V2 Linear Switch finds it ideal for users seeking an out-of-the-box, effortless typing and gaming feel. These factory pre-lubed switches deliver a consistently buttery smooth travel that reduces scratchiness and finger fatigue, so builders who want a quiet, deep-thock sound with minimal setup will appreciate them. The review focuses on real-world use: responsiveness in fast games, smoothness for long typing sessions, and whether the pre-lube and 5-pin design justify choosing these switches for a full-board mod.

Key Features

• Factory Pre-lubed: The stem and spring arrive pre-lubricated using Gateron s premium process, giving an instant smooth feel without manual lubing.
• Linear Performance: With no tactile bump and a 55g actuation force, the switches offer fast, consistent keypresses for both gaming and typing.
• Short Travel: A 2mm actuation distance helps register keystrokes quickly, useful in competitive gaming and fast typing bursts.
• Durable Contacts: Gold-plated, corrosion-resistant contacts support an estimated 80 million keystrokes for long-term reliability.
• 5-pin Compatibility: The 5-pin housing fits most PCBs and is suited to soldered custom builds and hot-swap boards that accept 5-pin stems.
• Pack Options: Multiple pack sizes from 36 to 108 pieces make them convenient for testers or full-board replacements.

Who It's For

These switches suit keyboard enthusiasts and gamers who want a ready-made, low-effort upgrade that emphasizes smooth linear action and a deep, thocky sound. Builders who dislike lubing or who want to try a premium pre-tuned linear switch before committing to custom lubrication will find these particularly convenient.

Less suitable are users who prefer tactile or clicky feedback, or those on a tight budget who prioritize cost above switch feel; some customers note the price is higher than basic switches, so buyers wanting the lowest cost per switch might look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Immediate, smooth action thanks to professional factory lubrication that saves time for builders.
• Consistent linear feel with 55g actuation and 2mm travel for fast, predictable presses in games and typing.
• Durable gold-plated contacts and 5-pin design provide broad compatibility and longevity.

Cons

• Some buyers consider the switches to be pricey compared with unlubed or budget alternatives.

Specifications

Switch Type	Linear
Actuation Force	55g
Actuation Distance	2mm
Pre-lubrication	Factory pre-lubed stem and spring
Contact Finish	Gold-plated, corrosion-resistant
Pin Count	5-pin PCB compatible
Estimated Lifespan	80 million keystrokes

Our Verdict

The Gateron Oil King V2 is a strong choice for builders and gamers who value a quiet, buttery smooth linear feel without the hassle of manual lubrication. It offers reliable durability and fast actuation, making it worth the premium for users who want immediate improvement in typing sound and feel on a custom board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these ready to use out of the box?
Yes, they arrive factory pre-lubed and are pre-tuned for immediate plug-and-play use in compatible keyboards.

Will they fit my PCB?
The switches use a 5-pin housing and gold-plated contacts, so they are compatible with most 5-pin PCBs and standard custom keyboard builds.

How durable are the contacts?
The contacts are gold-plated and corrosion-resistant, rated for an estimated 80 million keystrokes for long-term reliability.