Gazzew LT vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Luciola. The Gazzew LT switches are well-known for their enticing lilac hue and offer an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. Typing on these linear switches provides a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches are eye-catching with their glow-in-the-dark feature. These linear switches have a medium heft and offer a smooth and bouncy typing feel. They also produce a unique hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. While these general traits may help you decide between the two switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your keyboard setup.

By the numbers

Gazzew LT Linear

Gateron Luciola Linear

$6.50 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Luciola switches exhibit distinct differences in their sound profiles. The LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," produces a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is not overly sharp. While both top housings offer satisfying sounds, the LT's boba plastic provides a deeper tonality, while the Luciola's INK blend gives a clacky and thinner sound.

In terms of bottom housing, both the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Luciola feature proprietary plastic blends that deliver a rich and deep sound. The LT's boba plastic, used in the bottom housing, contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Similarly, the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing exhibits qualities of a pointed and higher-pitched sound, which adds to the overall clackiness of the switch. These bottom housings, although different in their sound characteristics, offer a satisfying tactile experience when typing or gaming.

While the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Luciola differ slightly in their sound profiles, they both aim to provide an enjoyable typing and gaming experience. The impact of the bottom housing is evident when pressing down on the switch, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing's role becomes more pronounced when releasing a key, affecting the sound that is produced. Despite their contrasting sound profiles, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying and distinctive typing experience, with the LT offering a rich and deep tone, while the Luciola provides a clacky and higher-pitched sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are a few noticeable differences. The LT switch has an actuation force that is currently unknown, while the Luciola switch requires 55 grams of force for actuation. On the other hand, the LT switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Luciola switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range.

Considering users' preferences, weight becomes an important factor. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Luciola switch would be the better choice, as it requires 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. This lighter actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work scenarios or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the LT switch's actuation force is currently unavailable, so it is uncertain whether it can offer a similarly light feel.

On the other hand, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience and thus favor switches with heavier forces. In this case, the LT switch may be the preferable option, as it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a stronger push feel during typing. The Luciola switch, with its 60-gram bottom out force, falls into the medium range, making it a lighter option compared to the LT switch.

In conclusion, while the actuation and bottom out forces vary between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, users can achieve similar results depending on their preferred weight preference. The Luciola switch is lighter, allowing for longer typing sessions, while the LT switch offers a heavier push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, we can see that the LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Luciola has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Gazzew LT with its shorter travel distance would be the preferable option. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, preferring a deeper key press. In this case, the Gateron Luciola with its longer travel distance would provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter, snappier response or a deeper, more substantial key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT linear switches are best known for their deep and resonant "thockiness". These switches have a bassy sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range and a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed. The LT switches offer a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switches have a unique sound profile. They are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, they have a chirpy characteristic, which adds a little squeak to their acoustic signature. The Luciola switches are also described as marbly, resonant, high-pitched, and clean. They resemble the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. While the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps, the LT switches provide a deep and rich bass sound, while the Luciola switches offer a more crisp and percussive sound.

When it comes to feel, there isn't specific information available about the feel of the Gazzew LT linear switches. However, the Gateron Luciola linear switches are known for providing a smooth and bouncy typing feel. They are described as snappy, indicating that they are super responsive and make the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, the Luciola switches offer a buttery typing experience, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke. This suggests that the Luciola switches provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. They are also described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be achieved through the use of high-quality materials and factory lubing, which reduce friction and ensure smooth key travel.

Considering the available information, the Gazzew LT linear switches are distinguished by their deep and resonant thockiness, providing a bass-rich and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switches offer a unique sound experience with their clacky, chirpy, and marbly characteristics. The Luciola switches provide a more crisp and percussive sound. In terms of feel, while there isn't specific information about the LT switches, the Luciola switches are known for their snappy and buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience. If you are looking for a deep and rich sound with a smooth glide, the Gazzew LT switches will not disappoint. Similarly, if you prefer a sharp and crisp sound with a responsive and polished typing feel, the Gateron Luciola switches are a great choice.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, resonant thockiness with every keystroke, the LT switches would be a great choice for you. Their lilac hue and seamless glide add to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value switches that glow in the dark, the Luciola switches are the way to go. These switches provide a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with a unique hollow sound profile reminiscent of a shaken can of spray paint. Consider your desired sound profile, whether you prefer a bassy and low-pitched tone or a clacky and high-pitched one. Additionally, think about the type of typing feel you prefer, whether it's snappy, buttery, or polished. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more