Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Luciola offer distinct typing experiences for users to consider. The Bsun Avocado is a tactile switch that is known for its pronounced tactility, providing satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. With a snappy and responsive bump, the Avocado switch offers a buttery downstroke and a mild, neutral sound signature, making for a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola is a linear switch that stands out with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature. It offers a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a medium heft, along with a unique sound profile likened to a "can of spray paint being shaken". While the Avocado switch is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Luciola switch is labeled as 'Snappy', 'Clacky', 'Chirpy', 'Marbly', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles; however, 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Luciola, one noticeable difference is in the top housing. The Avocado utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Despite these differences, both materials contribute to a clear sound profile, making them a good choice for those looking for distinct auditory feedback.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Avocado uses nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the Avocado's nylon housing may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more muted typing experience, while the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing might be more suitable for individuals seeking a sharper and crisper sound.
Overall, the distinction between the top and bottom housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Luciola contributes to their individual sound profiles. The Avocado's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a mix of sharp and deep sound qualities, while the Luciola's proprietary INK blend in both top and bottom housings offers a consistent, clacky sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Luciola linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Avocado requires a heavier force of 65 grams compared to the Luciola's 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Luciola for its lighter actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Avocado with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. The Avocado's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a more responsive key press, while the Luciola's slightly longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying depth to the keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for the feel and responsiveness of the switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Avocado tactile switch is known for its mild and neutral sound signature, providing a subtle backdrop to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is described as having a "sharp" and "snappy" sound profile, making it more lively and impactful in terms of acoustics. The Avocado offers a quieter and more understated typing experience, while the Luciola delivers a more vibrant and pronounced sound with its unique qualities such as being clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. Ultimately, your choice of sound preference between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more subdued or energetic typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Avocado tactile switch is characterized by an invigorating and sharp tactile response, offering a satisfying bump without being overwhelming. The typing experience with the Avocado is described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is not hypertactile or scratchy. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is noted for its bouncy and smooth typing feel, offering a snappy and reactive experience that is also described as snappy and buttery. The Luciola provides a polished typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Avocado and Luciola will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced and tactile typing feel or a smoother and more fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Avocado provides a more subdued and tactile typing experience with its neutral sound signature and sharp tactility, while the Luciola delivers a more lively and smooth typing experience with its snappy feel and vibrant sound profile. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so your choice between the two will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a more tactile or linear typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback versus a smooth linear feel. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump and a slightly heavier actuation force, the Avocado would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke with a lighter actuation force and appreciate a unique glow-in-the-dark feature, the Luciola may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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