Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and Gateron Luciola stand out as popular choices. The Aliaz is a tactile switch designed for quiet environments such as the office, offering a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke. It provides a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola is a linear switch that is visually striking with its ability to glow in the dark. It features a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. While the Aliaz is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Luciola is described as 'Snappy', 'Clacky', 'Chirpy', 'Marbly', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference, so 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Luciola, it is evident that both keyboards utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate which contributes to a clearer and resonant sound. In contrast, the Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, creating a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Aliaz's polycarbonate material may provide a more resonant and clear sound compared to the Luciola's INK blend.
One key difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Luciola lies in their aesthetic characteristics. The Aliaz's polycarbonate material is translucent, making it especially suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This allows for a visually appealing lighting effect that showcases the translucency of the polycarbonate material. On the other hand, the Luciola's INK blend material does not offer the same level of translucency, which may limit its compatibility with RGB lighting setups. Additionally, the clear housing of the Aliaz switch is a visual indicator that it is constructed from polycarbonate, whereas the Luciola's INK blend housing may not be as visibly distinctive.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Aliaz and Luciola switches differ in material composition, both play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing material primarily influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. By considering the characteristics of both the top and bottom housing materials, users can choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound profile, feel, and aesthetic design.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Luciola. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, while the Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Aliaz requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press down compared to the Luciola. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Luciola due to its lower force requirements, making it ideal for longer typing sessions. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel, the Aliaz may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance than the Luciola. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. However, both switches offer a good balance between travel distance and key feel, so you can expect similar results in terms of comfort and performance from both options. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted profile, which produces a softer and quieter sound compared to other mechanical switches. This makes it a great option for quiet environments such as offices. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a unique sound profile described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. These switches offer a sharp and snappy sound that is distinct from the more muted sound of the Aliaz. While both switches offer different sound profiles, the type of sound you prefer may depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth keypresses and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This makes the typing feel exceptionally smooth and refined. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its snappy and buttery feel, providing super responsive keystrokes and a seamless, effortless typing sensation. Both switches offer a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for an overall enhanced typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz offers a quieter and more pronounced typing feedback with a medium-heavy weight, while the Luciola provides a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a distinct sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and the specific environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. While the two switches offer different qualities, you can expect similar results in terms of performance and durability regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Gateron Aliaz tactile switches and Gateron Luciola linear switches, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience and enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback with a heavier keypress, the Aliaz switches would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and bouncier typing feel with a medium bottom out force, along with the added aesthetic of glowing in the dark, the Luciola switches would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences when it comes to sound, feel, and usage environment.
Mentioned in this article
