Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Luciola, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and experiences. The Crystal Violet switch is a tactile switch that is meticulously crafted with a light operating force of 45g. It provides a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a gentle and comfortable feel while typing. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switch offers a pleasantly mellow sound profile, leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola is a linear switch that stands out due to its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature. It offers a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with a distinct hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. So, while the Crystal Violet switch offers a creamy and low-pitched typing experience, the Luciola switch provides a snappy and clacky sensation. 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
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Luciola differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Crystal Violet features an ABS top housing, which is commonly used in keycaps but relatively rare in switch housings. This ABS housing contributes to a low-pitched sound profile, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing by Gateron. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky, offering a satisfying and distinctive auditory feedback.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Crystal Violet and the Luciola employ ABS materials. Although ABS is commonly found in keycaps, its usage in switch housings is relatively uncommon. This choice of material in the bottom housing results in a low-pitched sound profile, similar to that of the top housing. Thus, users can expect a consistent sound experience throughout their typing on switches featuring ABS housing, regardless of it being the top or bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings are divided in switches that have different materials for each housing. When pressing down on a switch, one will feel the impact and characteristics of the bottom housing in terms of sound and tactile feedback. Conversely, the top housing leaves a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This highlights how the specific housing material used in each part of the switch can contribute to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, whether it is the Everglide Crystal Violet or the Gateron Luciola, users can expect unique sound profiles and tactile feedback based on the materials chosen for the top and bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is clear that there are some differences to consider. The Crystal Violet has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a gentle touch. In contrast, the Luciola requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Crystal Violet more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
In terms of bottom out force, the Crystal Violet has a weight of 55 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to its actuation force. On the other hand, the Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a more solid and substantial typing experience. These heavier forces provide users with a satisfying sensation when pressing down on the keys and may be preferable for those who enjoy a more tactile and expressive typing style.
It is worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ, users can still achieve similar results with both switches. For individuals who prefer a lighter feel, the Crystal Violet's actuation force can provide a comfortable typing experience, while the Luciola's slightly heavier actuation force will still allow for accurate key presses. Similarly, those who enjoy the satisfying weight of the Luciola's bottom out force can still appreciate the Crystal Violet for its medium-light, yet present bottom out force.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch comes down to personal preference. For individuals seeking a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the Crystal Violet may be the preferable option. However, those who appreciate a stronger push and more substantial typing feel may find the Luciola more suitable.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of the distance traveled, the Crystal Violet has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Luciola. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Crystal Violet is more traditional, while the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Luciola is on the shallower side. It is worth mentioning that shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the Luciola with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. However, it is important to note that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a switch with a more substantial depth, the Crystal Violet with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and requirements.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile. These switches emit a mellow and soothing tone, leaning towards the bass-heavy spectrum. The use of ABS in the switch housings contributes to this pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique sound profile described as "clacky," "chirpy," and "marbly." This means that the Luciola switches produce a sharp, bright, and resonant sound when pressed, reminiscent of the sound of billiard balls colliding. The sound profile of these switches can be compared to a can of spray paint being shaken.
In terms of feel, the Crystal Violet switches offer a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. They are best suited for individuals seeking a gentle and comfortable feel while typing. The term "stepped" refers to the two-stage sensation of these switches, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, Crystal Violet switches are often described as creamy, indicating a smooth and buttery typing experience. It feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys, as each keystroke melts into the switch.
On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches are known for their smooth and bouncy typing feel. This gives users a snappy and responsive experience due to the longer or dual-staged springs used in these switches. They offer a seamless and uniform typing sensation, often described as "buttery." Additionally, Luciola switches can be classified as polished, meaning they have a refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and Gateron Luciola linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Crystal Violet switches provide a low-pitched, mellow sound along with a creamy and stepped tactile feel. On the other hand, Luciola switches produce a clacky, chirpy, and marbly sound profile along with a snappy and buttery typing experience. Selecting between these switches primarily depends on personal preference, whether one seeks a relaxed and gentle typing experience or a more snappy and responsive feel. It's important to note that the choice of keyboard and keycaps will also influence the overall sound and feel, but regardless of these factors, users can expect satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a gentle and comfortable feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a medium-light operating force that is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switches have a pleasantly mellow sound profile that leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium heft and a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with an eye-catching glow in the dark feature, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be the way to go. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches provide a medium typing experience. The Luciola switches also have a unique sound profile, described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched, which adds a distinct character to your typing. Ultimately, the choice between the Crystal Violet and Luciola switches depends on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and visual appeal.
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