Gateron Ink Red vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are worth considering are the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Luciola. The Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its lower actuation force, making it a great choice for those with a lighter typing style. With a satisfyingly smooth feel and a crispy and clacky sound profile, typing on the Ink Reds is effortless. On the other hand, the Luciola switches stand out for their glow-in-the-dark feature, making them visually appealing. These switches offer a medium heft, providing a smooth and bouncy typing experience. They also produce a distinct hollow sound, reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Luciola are virtually identical. Both switches use Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings. This means that the switches will deliver a similar experience in terms of sound and feel. The INK blend offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. Whether you are using the Ink Red or the Luciola, you can expect a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound when typing.
Although the housing materials are the same for both switches, it is worth noting that the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. When you press down on either switch, you will feel the impact and experience the characteristics of the bottom housing material. This ensures that the typing experience remains consistent between the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Luciola.
On the other hand, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when you release a key. As you lift your finger off the key, the top housing material influences the resulting sound. Since both switches utilize the same INK blend for the top housing, the sound profile when releasing a key will be similar between the Ink Red and the Luciola.
In summary, while the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Luciola have slightly different names, their housing materials are identical. Both switches utilize Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience. Whether you choose the Ink Red or the Luciola, you can expect a satisfying, clacky sound and feel while typing, with the bottom housing having more impact on bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Luciola linear switches, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. However, the actuation force differs between the two. The Gateron Ink Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a stronger push feel.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation force, it allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may be inclined to opt for the Gateron Luciola. Its heavier actuation force provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, offering a satisfying push feel during typing.
In summary, while the bottom out force remains the same for both switches, the Gateron Ink Red has a lighter actuation force, while the Gateron Luciola has a heavier actuation force. Both switches offer their own advantages, allowing individuals to tailor their typing experience based on personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have different travel distances. The Ink Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Luciola has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Ink Red's 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while the Luciola's 3.6mm travel distance is on the shallower side. In recent times, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Luciola may be a better choice for you. However, for individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial press when typing, the Ink Red's longer travel distance may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red switch has a subjective quality described as "crispy and clacky." The sound profile of this switch is satisfyingly smooth with a hint of a squeak, setting it apart from others. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch is known for a "hollow" sound profile, often compared to the sound of a can of spray paint being shaken. It offers a sharp and snappy sound, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches have a "chirpy" characteristic, meaning they have a slight squeaking sound. However, the Luciola switch also adds a "marbly" aspect, which refers to a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound. While the sound produced by a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, the Ink Red and Luciola switches offer distinct sound experiences with the Ink Red being crispy and clacky, and Luciola being hollow and clacky.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is known for its subjective qualities of being "silky," "mild," and "polished." These switches provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, offering reduced resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They fall in a safe and approachable middle-ground zone with a gentle typing experience. The Luciola switch, on the other hand, features a "snappy" feel, indicating super responsiveness. This attribute is often achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, providing a more alive typing experience. Additionally, the Luciola switch is described as "buttery," implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches also share the "polished" quality, indicating a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and Gateron Luciola switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red switch provides a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it suitable for those with a lighter typing style. It offers a silky, mild, and polished feel, delivering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola switch has a hollow and clacky sound profile, with a hint of marbly high-pitched resonance. It provides a snappy and buttery feel, offering a super responsive and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches have the polished quality, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Ink Red and Luciola switches offer unique characteristics, individuals seeking similar results can expect a smooth and refined typing experience from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches are known for their satisfying smoothness and effortless typing experience. Additionally, if you enjoy a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds would be a great fit. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique and eye-catching switch, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is the way to go. These switches glow in the dark and offer a smooth and bouncy typing feel. They also have a distinct hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to personal preference and the specific characteristics you value in a switch. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, making them suitable for most users. Overall, whether you choose the Ink Red or the Luciola, you can expect a high-quality switch that enhances your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
