Bsun Hutt vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Bsun Hutt and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Hutt, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Luciola, a linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Hutt switch is renowned for its medium-heavy spring and prominent tactile bump, providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola switch stands out with its glowing feature and medium heft, offering a smooth and bouncy typing feel. While the Hutt switch is appreciated for its balanced sound profile, the Luciola switch is known for its hollow sound reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. Both switches are categorized as 'Snappy', but the Hutt is described as 'Invigorating' and 'Sharp', while the Luciola is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Chirpy', and 'Buttery'. 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
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
49g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Hutt and the Gateron Luciola, we can see that they both offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile of the switch. The Hutt's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound, whereas the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a slightly less sharp but still high-pitched sound. Both materials are designed to resonate well, resulting in crisp sound profiles. However, the Luciola's sound is often described as "clacky," adding a different tactile element to the typing experience compared to the Hutt.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Hutt's nylon housing is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. On the other hand, the Luciola's bottom housing blends well with its top housing to create a more pointed and high-pitched sound, contributing to the overall clacky feel of the switch. Despite the differences in material, both housing options offer a unique sound profile that can appeal to different preferences.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that each material plays a crucial role. The qualities brought by the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that the material choice for each part of the housing can result in a distinct typing experience. While the Hutt and Luciola each offer their own blend of housing materials, they both aim to enhance the sound profile and tactile feedback for users seeking a unique typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Hutt has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Luciola's heavier 55 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Hutt at 49 grams is lighter than the Luciola's 60 grams. This means that the Hutt will require less force to trigger a keystroke and less force to fully press down compared to the Luciola. This difference in force may appeal to different preferences when it comes to typing or gaming. Some may prefer the lighter touch of the Hutt for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the more substantial feel of the Luciola for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Hutt tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. However, the Hutt offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a potentially better option for those seeking a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Luciola's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Bsun Hutt tactile switch offers a resonant typing experience with a higher-pitched and clean sound profile, providing an immersive auditory sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for producing a clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched sound when pressed, creating a sharp and percussive audio feedback. Both switches deliver unique sound profiles that can be influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch is characterized by a snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented typing experience, offering pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola linear switch provides a snappy and buttery typing feel, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and polished. Both switches deliver a tactile and responsive typing sensation, with the Hutt focusing more on the tactile feedback and the Luciola providing a smoother keystroke.
In conclusion, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hutt provides a resonant sound profile with a prominent tactile bump, while the Luciola emits a clacky sound with a smooth and bouncy feel. While different in their characteristics, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience and cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Hutt or Luciola switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience with unique auditory and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In summarizing your options between the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences in typing experience. If you enjoy a light bottom out force and a distinctive tactile bump with a balanced sound profile, the Hutt switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, bouncy typing feel with eye-catching glow-in-the-dark features, the Luciola switch could be more suitable. Consider the sound profile and feel descriptors mentioned for each switch to determine which aligns better with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what typing experience you value most.
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