KTT Lightning vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Luciola. The KTT Lightnings are often preferred for their speed and responsiveness, making them an excellent choice for gamers or anyone who values every millisecond of their actions. These switches offer a slick type feel and produce a clacky sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches stand out due to their eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature. In addition to the visual appeal, these switches offer a medium heft and a smooth and bouncy typing feel. When pressed, they produce a unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and use cases. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Luciola differ in terms of the materials used. The Lightning utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to its relatively stiffer plastic. This results in a higher-pitched sound, which is particularly ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Luciola's INK blend top housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Lightning employs a nylon material, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, thus creating a duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to the satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, similar to its top housing. The bottom housing materials have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While both switches have different housing materials for the top and bottom, they share similarities in terms of the sound profiles they produce. Both the Lightning and the Luciola offer high-pitched sound profiles, although the Lightning's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Luciola's INK blend. Additionally, both switches have housings that complement each other, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. These similarities ensure that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound experience despite the differences in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are notable differences. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which means it requires a relatively light press to fully depress the key. On the other hand, the Luciola switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more resistant push feel. Its bottom out force is 60 grams, which is moderately heavier compared to the Lightning switch. As a result, the typing experience on the Luciola switch may feel more substantial and require more effort. If a lighter weight is preferred, the Lightning switch would be the better choice, offering comfortable typing for extended periods of time. Meanwhile, if a stronger push feel is desired, the Luciola switch would be more suitable. While both switches actuate and bottom out differently, individuals seeking similar results in terms of force should consider their typing preferences before making a selection.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have different travel distances. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of comparison, the Lightning has a shorter travel distance compared to the Luciola. A 3 mm travel distance is considered more shallow, while a 3.6 mm travel distance is closer to the traditional 4 mm distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper keystroke experience may find the Luciola switch's longer travel distance more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, both the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Luciola switches have a clacky sound profile. This means that they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, both switches have a chirpy sound characteristic, which adds a little squeak to their acoustic signature. The Luciola switches also have a marbly sound profile, which is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. It can be compared to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Regarding feel, the KTT Lightning switches are described as having a subtle and polished typing experience. A subtle switch means that it has a gentle resistance without being too light, providing a comfortable typing feel. The polished characteristic indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches offer a snappy and buttery typing experience. The snappy characteristic suggests that these switches are super responsive, making the typing experience feel more alive. The buttery sensation implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Lightning switches, the Luciola switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, both the KTT Lightning and Gateron Luciola switches offer desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. They have similar clacky sound profiles, although the Luciola switches also have a marbly characteristic. In terms of feel, the Lightning switches provide a subtle and polished experience, while the Luciola switches offer a snappy and buttery typing sensation, both complemented with a polished finish. It's important to keep in mind that personal preferences may vary, and ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness in your typing experience, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches are perfect for situations where every millisecond counts, such as in gaming. They offer a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile, which can enhance your overall typing speed and accuracy.
On the other hand, if you are looking for an eye-catching switch that stands out in the dark, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a great option for you. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches provide a medium heft that can give you a satisfying and bouncy typing feel. They also have a unique hollow sound profile, reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken.
When it comes to sound, both switches offer a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound, both switches can cater to your preference. The Lightning switch is described as high-pitched and chirpy, while the Luciola switch is described as high-pitched, chirpy, and marbly, which adds a resonant and clean quality to the sound.
In terms of feel, the Lightning switch is described as having a subtle and polished feel, with a gentle resistance and a smooth key travel experience. This makes it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Luciola switch offers a snappy and buttery feel, with super responsiveness and a seamless typing sensation. Additionally, both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Lightning and Gateron Luciola switches depends on your specific preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize speed, unique aesthetics, sound profile, or typing feel, both switches have their own advantages. It's important to consider your personal requirements and select the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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