TKC Kiwi vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TKC Kiwi and the Gateron Luciola. The Kiwi is a tactile switch that offers a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfying typing experience. Not only does it enhance your typing with its tactile feedback, but it also delivers a snappy sound profile that can fully immerse you in your typing. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola is a linear switch known for its eye-catching feature of glowing in the dark. While it may not offer the same tactile feedback as the Kiwi, it compensates with a smooth and bouncy typing feel. Moreover, the Luciola switches produce a distinct hollow sound resembling 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 ideal switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

TKC Kiwi Tactile

Gateron Luciola Linear

$8.00 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The TKC Kiwi and the Gateron Luciola both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing offers a bright sound signature that produces resonant clacks while typing. In contrast, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. Though different, both materials contribute to an enhanced auditory experience during key release.

Moving to the bottom housings, the Kiwi implements UHWMPE, which is also newer and provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Similarly, the Luciola features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which shares similarities with the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing. Both materials contribute to a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound when typing, commonly described as clacky.

When comparing the top and bottom housings, it is apparent that the qualities provided by each material are split between the different parts of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing plays a key role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both the Kiwi and the Luciola deliver enhanced keyboard acoustics and a unique typing experience through their respective housing materials.

In summary, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Gateron Luciola, both the top and bottom housings, showcase distinct characteristics. The Kiwi's UHWMPE and the Luciola's proprietary INK blend materials offer different sound signatures, with the former providing resonant clacks and the latter delivering a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound described as clacky. However, both switches employ materials that enhance the typing experience, with the bottom housing primarily influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes to the sound produced when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer unique auditory experiences due to their specific housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, whereas the Luciola requires a slightly heavier force of 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Kiwi is heavier with a force of 67 grams, while the Luciola requires 60 grams.

In terms of weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Kiwi switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing sessions without strain or fatigue. This can be particularly advantageous for those using a keyboard for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Luciola switch, as its higher actuation force provides a more deliberate keystroke.

It is also worth mentioning that both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. This means that regardless of the specific force required, users can expect a decent amount of tactile feedback and responsiveness from both switches. Overall, while the Kiwi is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier when bottoming out, the Luciola offers a slightly heavier actuation force but a lighter bottom out force.

Travel distance

The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have different travel distances. The Kiwi has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional depth. On the other hand, the Luciola has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Luciola a more shallow option compared to the Kiwi.

In terms of preference, gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. This is because the shorter distance reduces the time it takes for the key to register when pressed. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Luciola would be the ideal choice with its slightly shorter travel distance.

However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances can feel too abrupt for some individuals. If you prefer a more hearty depth when pressing down on keys, the Kiwi with its longer travel distance would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and the specific needs of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The TKC Kiwi tactile switch is best known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the typing experience. In terms of sound, the Kiwi switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which gives them a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a satisfyingly snappy sound that adds to the immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing feel right out of the box. The feel of the Kiwi switches can be described as stepped, meaning they have two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. They are also accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Furthermore, the Kiwi switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switches are eye-catching with their glow-in-the-dark feature. These switches have a medium heft, offering a smooth and bouncy typing feel. In terms of sound, the Luciola switches have a clacky and chirpy sound profile. This means they produce a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound when pressed, with a slight squeak to them. Additionally, the Luciola switches can be described as marbly, resonant, high-pitched, and clean, similar to the sound of tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. Like the Kiwi switches, the Luciola switches also have a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

To conclude, the TKC Kiwi tactile switches and Gateron Luciola linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiwi switches have a low-pitched sound profile that delivers a satisfyingly snappy and immersive typing experience. They also have a stepped and accented feel, providing a medium-strong bump and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Luciola switches have a clacky and chirpy sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp typing experience. They provide a smooth and bouncy feel with a polished finish for reduced friction.

While the qualitative attributes of these switches differ, it is important to keep in mind that the final experience is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a tactile typing experience, the Kiwi switches are a great choice. If you are looking for a clacky and chirpy sound with a linear typing feel, the Luciola switches will meet your preferences. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and an enhanced typing experience, the TKC Kiwi is a great choice for you. With a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the Kiwi offers a tactile feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, its stepped and accented feel provides a mild keystroke with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Kiwi also has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.

On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with an eye-catching feature, the Gateron Luciola is the switch for you. The Luciola switches glow in the dark, adding a unique visual appeal. With a medium bottom out force, these switches provide a smooth and bouncy typing feel. The Luciola switches have a clacky and chirpy sound profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds with a little squeak. Furthermore, like the Kiwi, the Luciola switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, your choice between the TKC Kiwi and the Gateron Luciola will depend on your preference for either a tactile or linear switch and the desired sound and feel. Consider the typing experience you are looking for and whether you prioritize an immersive tactile feel or an eye-catching feature. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

TKC Kiwi Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more