Dareu Holly vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Luciola stand out as popular options with unique characteristics. The Dareu Holly, a tactile switch, offers a medium 50g actuation force and a distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, catering to users seeking a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola, a linear switch, is known for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. While the Holly switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', and 'Neutral', the Luciola switch boasts classifications such as 'Snappy', 'Clacky', 'Chirpy', 'Marbly', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers its own set of advantages and appeal, making them suitable for different 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-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 Dareu Holly and the Gateron Luciola, it is evident that they both prioritize sound profile in slightly different ways. The Holly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The nature of polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic contributes to a more resonant sound that is especially suited for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky, striking a balance between sharpness and satisfaction in sound.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, the contrast between the Holly's nylon bottom housing and the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing is noticeable. The Holly's nylon bottom housing is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller yet rounder sound. Conversely, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing complements its top housing by contributing to a high-pitched and satisfying sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the use of different housing materials in the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Luciola results in distinctive typing experiences for users. While both switches prioritize sound profile, the Holly leans towards a crisper and resonant sound with its polycarbonate and nylon housing combination, while the Luciola offers a more balanced and satisfying clacky sound with its proprietary INK blend housing materials. Regardless of the differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through the careful selection of housing materials to achieve their intended sound profiles.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Luciola linear switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Luciola is heavier at 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown. This means that the Holly switch may feel lighter and gentler when typing, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Luciola switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Luciola for faster response times, but some users may find it too abrupt. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Holly with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you desire.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinctive typing experience. This switch is best suited for users looking for a balanced sound profile that stands out from the typical switch options. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch produces a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken” sound profile, which gives it a smooth and bouncy typing feel. The Luciola switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more mellow yet satisfying sound while typing. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the chirpy and clacky sound of the Holly or the smooth and bouncy sound of the Luciola to enhance their typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the information provided does not specify the tactile feel of the Dareu Holly switch. However, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is described as having a snappy, buttery, and polished feel. These characteristics indicate that the Luciola switch provides a responsive and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes the switch suitable for users who prioritize a refined and comfortable typing feel. Whether one prefers a snappy and responsive feel or a smooth and polished experience, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a variety of tactile sensations for users to enjoy.
Overall, both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer unique sound profiles and tactile feels that cater to different preferences. While the Holly switch stands out for its chirpy and clacky sound combination, the Luciola switch excels in providing a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a distinct sound profile. Depending on whether users prioritize sound or feel in their mechanical keyboard switches, they can choose between the two options for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can provide similar results in terms of typing efficiency and comfort.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider the following factors. If you value a unique sound profile with a mix of chirpy and clacky elements, along with a distinctive typing experience, then the Holly switch with its medium 50g actuation force might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a hollow sound profile, and enjoy switches that glow in the dark, then the Luciola switch with its 60g bottom out force could be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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