Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Luciola. The Ink Black V2 is a beloved linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished', this switch provides a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola switch stands out with its unique glowing feature, making it visually appealing in the dark. Offering a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a distinctive hollow sound profile reminiscent of a shaking spray paint can, the Luciola is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Clacky', 'Chirpy', 'Marbly', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. These general descriptions give you an idea of what each switch has to offer. However, let's delve deeper to help you make the best choice suited to your preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Luciola are identical. Both switches feature proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings, which are characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile without being overly sharp. This leads to a satisfying thin and clacky sound when typing on either switch. Therefore, users can expect to get similar results in terms of sound and feel when using both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Luciola.

The similarities between the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Luciola mean that the overall typing experience should be consistent between the two switches. The bottom housing of both switches has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a satisfying and higher-pitched clacky sound. On the other hand, the top housing is responsible for the sound when the key is released. This means that the sound profile of both switches will have a distinctive thin and higher-pitched quality, providing a consistent auditory experience.

In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Luciola offer similar characteristics. Both switches utilize the proprietary INK blend for their top and bottom housings, resulting in comparable sound profiles. The distinct clacky sound and feel when typing with these switches can be attributed to the shared housing materials. Whether using the Ink Black V2 or the Luciola, users can expect a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Luciola's 55 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 is also slightly heavier with 70 grams, while the Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a satisfying typing experience.

For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Luciola with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable choice. This allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it perfect for work or marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel and desire a tactile feedback might opt for the Ink Black V2. Its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a sense of solidity and robustness during typing.

In summary, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have some differences in actuation and bottom out forces, they both offer a reliable and enjoyable typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier touch, both switches are capable of providing similar results, making them worthy considerations for keyboard enthusiasts.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be the most traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Ink Black V2 the longer switch in terms of travel distance. In general, shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Luciola with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, some people find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and if you prefer a more substantial keystroke feel, then the Ink Black V2 with its longer travel distance may be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is known for its low-pitched and bassy profile. This switch offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, it also has a unique chirpy characteristic, adding a subtle squeak to its sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola is described as clacky and chirpy. It produces a sharp and snappy sound, giving a crisp and bright sensation. Additionally, the Luciola has a marbly attribute, meaning it has a resonant and clean sound similar to tapping on solid marble or the collision of two billiard balls. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Luciola may be more suitable for you. However, keep in mind that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is described as having a mild and polished typing experience. With its gentle and refined characteristics, this switch provides a safe and approachable typing sensation. The Ink Black V2's switch is smooth and polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Luciola also possesses a polished attribute, leading to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Luciola is known for being snappy and buttery. The snappy feature indicates a high responsiveness, making the typing experience feel alive. Meanwhile, the buttery attribute refers to a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering seamless and effortless typing. If you appreciate a more responsive and smooth typing feel, the Luciola may be more suitable for your preferences.

Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Luciola linear switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Ink Black V2 provides a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, while the Luciola offers a bouncy and smooth typing feel with a clacky sound profile. These switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a low-pitched, bassy sound with a mild and polished typing experience, the Ink Black V2 is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with a snappy and buttery typing feel, the Luciola is worth considering. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique attributes that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, so it is essential to consider your personal preferences before making a decision.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you are a fan of a medium-heavy bottom out force at 70 grams and value a smooth downstroke with a rich clack, then the Ink Black V2 switch is the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force at 60 grams and are attracted to switches that glow in the dark, along with a smooth and bouncy typing feel and a unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile, then the Luciola switch would be the better option.

When it comes to sound, the Ink Black V2 switch offers a low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, which can be characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In contrast, the Luciola switch provides a clacky and chirpy sound, with a high-pitched and marbly option as well. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile, the Ink Black V2 switch would be ideal. However, if you enjoy a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound, then the Luciola switch would suit your taste.

Regarding feel, the Ink Black V2 switch is described as mild and polished, offering a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch resides in a safe, middle-ground zone, appealing to most users. On the other hand, the Luciola switch is snappy, buttery, and also polished, providing a super responsive and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in smooth and effortless typing.

Ultimately, it is essential to consider the characteristics that matter most to you, such as bottom out force, sound, and feel, when making a decision between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Luciola switches. Understanding your preferences and priorities will guide you to choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more