TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Luciola, a linear switch. The Bluish White switches are perfect for those seeking a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. With a snappy sound profile and a buttery, mild feel, these switches offer a polished and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches are eye-catching with their glow-in-the-dark feature. They provide a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a unique hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. Categorized as snappy, clacky, chirpy, marbly, buttery, high-pitched, and polished, these switches offer a distinctive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The TTC Bluish White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiff plastic material leads to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a clear and high-pitched sound. Similarly, the Gateron Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which also offers a relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. Both switches provide a satisfying and clacky sound experience, making them suitable for users who enjoy a distinct sound while typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Bluish White's translucent polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. The clarity and translucency of polycarbonate allows the lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall visual experience. Conversely, the Luciola's INK blend top housing does not offer this level of transparency, making it more suitable for users who prioritize sound over visual effects.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the TTC Bluish White incorporates a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Similarly, the Gateron Luciola also utilizes their proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, providing a pointed and high-pitched sound without being too sharp. Both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, but the choice between them depends on personal preferences for the type of sound desired.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, it is important to note that they each contribute to different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a tactile response when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. Whether one prefers the sharper and higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the satisfying and clacky sound of the INK blend will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Bluish White has a lighter touch, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola has a medium touch, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This provides a slightly stronger push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience. For individuals who prefer a heavier switch, the Gateron Luciola would be a suitable choice. Although the actuation and bottom out forces for the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Luciola differ, those who are seeking similar results in terms of a lighter or heavier touch can choose either switch accordingly.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch can greatly affect the user experience when typing or gaming. When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch with the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it can be observed that the Bluish White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Luciola has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference between the two distances is minimal, it can still have an impact on the typing or gaming experience.
For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Bluish White switch may be more appealing. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows them to press keys more rapidly, resulting in quicker actions in games. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming might lean towards the Gateron Luciola switch with its slightly longer travel distance. The additional 0.1 mm can provide a sense of depth and solidity that some users find satisfying.
It is worth noting that both the Bluish White and the Luciola switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the current market. It seems that the trend towards shorter travel distances is driven by the demand for increased responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both options will provide similar results, but the slight difference in travel distance can determine how users perceive the key presses and the overall feel of the switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch is best known for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience. When typing on them, a snappy sound profile is detected. The sound of the Bluish White is described as low-pitched, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the Bluish White provides a buttery, mild typing experience. It is a subtle switch with a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. The Bluish White can also be described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its eye-catching glow in the dark feature. These switches have a medium heft and provide a smooth and bouncy typing feel. The sound profile of the Luciola is described as clacky, chirpy, and marbly. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. The Luciola switch can also be considered buttery and polished, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bluish White has a low-pitched sound profile and offers a buttery, mild typing experience. It is suitable for those who prefer a more mellow and smooth typing sensation. On the other hand, the Luciola has a clacky, chirpy, and marbly sound profile, providing a sharp and responsive typing experience. It is more suitable for those who prefer a more lively and vibrant feel. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose the switch that best suits their desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom out force and a snappy sound profile, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for an eye-catching switch that glows in the dark, with a medium bottom out force and a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a great fit.
When it comes to sound, the Bluish White switch has a low-pitched profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In contrast, the Luciola switch offers a range of sound profiles, including clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched, depending on your preference.
In terms of feel, the Bluish White switch offers a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished experience. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke, with a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Luciola switch offers a snappy and buttery feel, with a polished finish that results in a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch depends on your specific preferences and priorities. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize a poppy typing experience or an eye-catching design, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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