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Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Gateron Luciola

An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Luciola stand out as popular options, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Honey Bean switch is preferred for its light and linear action, making it ideal for a quiet typing experience in shared spaces like an office. On the other hand, the Luciola switch is known for its eye-catching design with glowing properties, accompanied by a smooth and bouncy typing feel. While the Honey Bean is praised for its muted sound profile, the Luciola offers a unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that appeal to different user preferences. 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

42g

Actuation force

55g

Bottom-out force

N/A

Bottom-out force

60g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.70 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

Ly

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

POM

Top housing material

Proprietary INK blend

Bottom housing material

POM

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

The housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Luciola switches both play a significant role in the sound profile they produce. The Honey Bean's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a relatively higher-pitched and clackier sound. This difference in sound profile between the two switches can greatly influence the typing experience for users who have a preference for either a deeper or higher-pitched sound.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Honey Bean's POM bottom housing and the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. While the POM bottom housing of the Honey Bean creates a pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side, the INK blend bottom housing of the Luciola delivers a higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. These differences in sound between the bottom housings of the two switches can impact the overall typing feel and satisfaction for users depending on their personal preferences.

When considering how the top and bottom housings of the switches interact to create their sound profiles, it is clear that each housing material brings unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. While the Honey Bean and Luciola switches may have different top and bottom housing materials, the division of qualities between the two parts allows for a balanced and satisfying typing experience for users, albeit with distinct characteristics in sound.

Weight

Comparing the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, the Honey Bean is lighter in terms of actuation force at 42 grams compared to the Luciola's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Luciola is heavier at 60 grams while the Honey Bean's bottom out force is unknown. If the Honey Bean's bottom out force is similar to its actuation force, then it may provide a lighter typing experience overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Luciola due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and weight preference.

Travel distance

The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 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, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, especially gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and whether you prefer a slightly shorter or slightly longer distance for your typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.

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 Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch offers a muted typing experience, which is ideal for environments where noise reduction is essential. The Gateron Luciola linear switch, on the other hand, provides a clacky and marbly sound profile that can be quite sharp and percussive. While the Honey Bean focuses on maintaining a quiet operation, the Luciola switch offers a more distinct and resonant sound. Depending on personal preference, one may choose the Honey Bean for a subtle typing experience or the Luciola for a more unique and lively sound.

When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery typing experience. These switches require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a snappy and buttery typing feel, providing a responsive and smooth keystroke experience. Whether you prefer a light and gentle actuation like the Honey Bean or a more responsive and fluid sensation like the Luciola, both switches cater to different typing preferences.

Overall, the Jerrzi Honey Bean and Gateron Luciola linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Honey Bean excels in providing a quiet and easy typing experience, while the Luciola stands out with its distinct and responsive typing feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound reduction or a more lively typing experience, you can choose between the Honey Bean for a subtle and light operation or the Luciola for a snappier and more tactile feel. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance that will satisfy newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet and discreet typing experience that is well-suited for shared environments like the office, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its light and linear action, as well as its muted sound profile, you can enjoy a satisfying typing experience without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing feel, coupled with an eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, the Gateron Luciola linear switch may be more to your liking. Its clacky sound profile along with its snappy and buttery feel can provide a more lively and dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and visual aesthetics.

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