HMX Jelly vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can dramatically affect your typing experience, and the HMX Jelly and Gateron Luciola present intriguing options for enthusiasts. The HMX Jelly, notable for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, offers a super smooth feel attributed to its excellent factory lubrication and lightweight 42g actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter and softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola is not just a delight to type on; its visually striking glow-in-the-dark feature adds a unique flair to any setup. With a medium heft, it delivers a bouncy and smooth typing feel, accompanied by a hollow sound reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences: those seeking tranquility and lightweight performance may gravitate toward the Jelly, while users looking for visual aesthetics and a dynamic typing feel might favor the Luciola. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Gateron Luciola Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Luciola, a clear contrast emerges that shapes both the sound profile and tactile experience of the switches. The Jelly utilizes traditional nylon for both its top and bottom housings. This classic material is known for its softer characteristics, which help absorb sound and prevent sharper, piercing noises. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, where the pressing and releasing of keys create a duller, rounder auditory experience. The use of nylon contributes significantly to the overall feel of the switch, emphasizing a muted and more rounded keystroke.

In contrast, the Gateron Luciola employs a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. This material is engineered to produce a distinctively higher-pitched sound profile that some users describe as being "clacky." The pointed noise does not come across as overly sharp, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that leans towards being crisp. The differences in material mean that when typing on the Luciola, users experience a sound that is markedly different from that of the Jelly, even as both switches offer unique tactile experiences aligned with their respective sound profiles.

Although the materials differ significantly, if the housings of the Jelly and Luciola were, hypothetically, the same—both crafted from nylon or from the INK blend—their auditory and tactile characteristics would converge towards a singular experience. However, since they utilize different materials, the Jelly’s softer nylon naturally contributes to a fuller sound experience with a subdued character, while the Luciola’s INK blend encapsulates a brighter and more pronounced auditory feedback. Therefore, each switch offers distinctly different sound and tactile engagements, ultimately resulting in individual preferences for gaming or typing experiences based on the contrasts in their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The HMX Jelly features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an appealing choice for those who seek comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. As a result, individuals who prioritize a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Jelly, while those who favor a stronger push should consider the Luciola. Overall, the Jelly is the lighter option, while the Luciola is the heavier switch, catering to different preferences in terms of actuation and overall typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, the Jelly features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the Luciola offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Jelly the longer option, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press feel, providing a deeper actuation suitable for those who enjoy a more tactile experience. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Luciola is ideal for gamers and users seeking quicker response times, enhancing the speed of key presses. In summary, if you value a hearty depth, the Jelly is the better choice, while the Luciola caters to those desiring a more responsive, albeit more abrupt, travel experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly switch has a low-pitched, thocky sound signature that provides a satisfying auditory feedback akin to heavier switches. This deep tone may be preferred for those who enjoy a more subdued acoustic environment when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola presents a more diverse sound profile, described as a combination of clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched tones. The distinctiveness of the Luciola lies in its lively range of sounds that may appeal more to those who revel in auditory variety while typing, contrasting sharply with the Jelly's deeper sound.

Regarding feel, the Jelly switch is known for an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhanced by effective factory lubrication and a lightweight actuation force of only 42g. This can lead to a fatigue-free typing experience ideal for extended sessions. Meanwhile, the Luciola shines with a smooth and bouncy feel, characterized by snappiness and polish. Users can expect a responsive typing experience, making it feel dynamic and invigorating. Both switches offer smooth action, but the Luciola’s bounciness and extra responsiveness provide a different tactile sensation compared to the Jelly’s more straightforward, lightweight smoothness.

To summarize, while the HMX Jelly switch offers a low-pitched, thocky sound and a very smooth, lightweight feel, the Gateron Luciola captivates with a higher-pitched, versatile sound profile accompanied by a snappy, polished typing experience. Both switches provide unique aural and tactile experiences: the Jelly appeals to those seeking a deeper, more muted sound and a smooth touch, while the Luciola attracts users who enjoy a lively auditory presence and greater feedback in their keystrokes. Choosing between them depends ultimately on individual preferences in both sound and feel, but you can expect excellent performance from either option, catering to different styles of typing.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding feel, sound, and typing experience. If you lean towards a lighter touch with a lower actuation force, the Jelly would be an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a thocky sound signature that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. Its super smooth action, amplified by the factory lube, makes it ideal for those who favor a fluid typing experience, whether for gaming or extended typing sessions. Conversely, if you enjoy a somewhat heftier key feel with a bit more resistance, the Luciola may be more to your liking. With its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, it provides a snappier response, along with a unique bouncy typing sensation and an eye-catching glow that stands out. The Luciola also features a hollow sound profile that can be engaging for users who prefer a crisper, more vibrant auditory feedback while typing. So, whether you want a lightweight, smooth switch with a deep tone or a springier switch with a lively sound and glowing aesthetics, both options cater well to different typing styles and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more