TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the unique characteristics of each option. The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is a versatile choice, offering a seamless typing experience with its easy press and neutral sound signature. This makes it suitable for various activities such as gaming, office work, or casual typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola stands out for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and distinct sound profile. While the Gold Red Pro emphasizes adaptability and a mild sound, the Luciola focuses on a snappy and clacky typing experience with a high-pitched tone. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Luciola differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound with a high pitch, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. In contrast, the Luciola utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and high-pitched sound without being overly sharp, resulting in a satisfying clacky feel. Both switches have distinct sound profiles due to their top housing materials, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Luciola also contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing complements the top housing with a high-pitched and satisfying clacky sound, offering a unique typing experience. Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both switches provide a distinctive sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining its sound profile and feel. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials in a switch like the Gold Red Pro or the Gateron Luciola affects both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Whether it is the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red Pro or the unique INK blend top housing of the Luciola, each switch offers a distinct sound profile that caters to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, one significant difference is their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Gateron Luciola has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro's force is unknown, while the Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Luciola switch will require a slightly heavier touch to activate a keypress and to fully press down compared to the Gold Red Pro. This could result in a different typing experience for users, with the Luciola providing a more substantial and resistant typing feel, while the Gold Red Pro offers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances commonly preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance than the Luciola. The Gold Red Pro may provide a slightly deeper and more substantial keypress feel compared to the Luciola, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Luciola's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a more responsive and quick keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that is both satisfying and mellow, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more neutral sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is crisp and percussive, giving users a more vibrant auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the deep and rich sound of the Gold Red Pro or the sharp and bright sound of the Luciola.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a polished and silky typing experience that is smooth and refined, offering reduced friction and a comfortable key travel. The mild and subtle characteristics of this switch make it an approachable option for most users. Meanwhile, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a snappy and buttery typing feel that is highly responsive and fluid, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. With its polished finish, users can expect a sleek and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Gateron Luciola linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro excels in providing a neutral and mellow sound with a polished and refined feel, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Luciola switch stands out with its vibrant and percussive sound profile and responsive, buttery typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the harmonious adaptability of the Gold Red Pro or the eye-catching performance of the Gateron Luciola. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and are sure to satisfy newcomers to the mechanical keyboard scene.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value versatility and a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with eye-catching aesthetics, a medium actuation force, and a bouncy typing feel, the Luciola could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Be sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one suits you best.
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