TTC Iron vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch with the Gateron Luciola linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron is renowned for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkable lightness, providing a satisfying typing experience with swift actuation and buttery smooth travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature and medium heft, offering a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a distinct "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. While the TTC Iron may appeal to those seeking precision and pleasure in each keystroke, the Gateron Luciola may attract individuals looking for a snappy and polished typing experience. 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
41g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Gateron Luciola switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Iron's POM top and bottom housings provide a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings, which offer a pointed, high-pitched, and clacky sound. This difference in sound profile creates a unique typing experience for each switch, catering to different preferences.
While both switches have unique sound profiles, the materials used in their top and bottom housings play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The Iron's POM housings create a consistent and satisfying sound throughout the keystroke, while the Luciola's INK blend housings offer a more distinct and pointed sound. These differences in sound can impact the overall feel and satisfaction of typing on each switch, appealing to different preferences based on sound and tactile feedback.
Despite the differences in sound profiles between the TTC Iron and the Gateron Luciola switches, both switches use high-quality materials in their housings to enhance the typing experience. The POM housings of the Iron and the proprietary INK blend housings of the Luciola offer durability and consistency in sound, ensuring that users can enjoy a premium typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile feedback, as both options provide a high level of quality in their housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Iron switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Luciola's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Iron switch also requires less force at 50 grams, while the Luciola switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Iron switch is lighter overall, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where lighter keypresses are desired. On the other hand, the Luciola switch provides a more substantial typing experience with heavier keypresses. It is important to consider personal preferences for keypress weight when choosing between the two switches.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 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 individuals seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. The Iron switch would have a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Luciola switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for the amount of key travel desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 TTC Iron linear switch offers a distinctive clacky sound profile that is sharp, snappy, and satisfying with each press. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch also provides a clacky sound but adds unique descriptors such as chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched, setting it apart with a more varied auditory experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver an engaging sound experience, with the Iron focusing on a pronounced clack and the Luciola offering a mix of interesting sound characteristics.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch provides an easy-to-press typing experience with light actuation and smooth travel, enhancing typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is described as snappy, buttery, and polished, offering a responsive and refined typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing feel, with the Iron focusing on gentle resistance and the Luciola featuring longer or dual-staged springs for added responsiveness.
Overall, the TTC Iron and Gateron Luciola linear switches each bring a unique set of qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Iron emphasizes a clacky sound signature and easy-to-press typing feel, the Luciola showcases a mix of sound profiles and a polished, buttery typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, snappier sound or a more varied auditory experience, both switches are designed to offer precision and pleasure in every keystroke. Depending on your personal preferences, choosing between the TTC Iron and Gateron Luciola linear switches can provide a tailored mechanical keyboard experience that suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Choose the TTC Iron if you prefer a lighter 50-gram bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and an easy-to-press typing experience with buttery smooth travel. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Luciola if you prefer a medium 60-gram bottom out force, eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, and a smooth and bouncy typing feel with snappy and buttery characteristics. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should align with your typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
