Gateron Luciola vs. Durock Mamba

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that are worth considering are the Gateron Luciola and the Durock Mamba. On one hand, the Luciola is an eye-catching switch due to its ability to glow in the dark. It offers a medium heft, providing a satisfying typing experience that feels both smooth and bouncy. The sound profile of the Luciola can be compared to the sound of a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken," adding an extra layer of novelty to the switch. On the other hand, the Mamba pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and offers a gliding typing sensation that users can truly appreciate. It provides a rich and creamy auditory experience, with a sound profile that can be described as "neutral," "mild," and "thocky." Overall, both switches have their unique features and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Durock Mamba Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Durock Mamba switches have distinct differences, as well as some similarities. Starting with the top housing, the Luciola features Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, providing a slightly brighter sound profile. Both materials aim to provide a satisfying key press experience, but they slightly differ in terms of pitch and tone.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Luciola maintains its proprietary INK blend, resulting in a thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. Conversely, the Mamba features a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, and in this aspect, the Luciola and Mamba differ in the intensity and pitch of the sound produced.

Despite these differences, it's essential to mention that both switches strive to provide enjoyable typing experiences. While the Luciola's top and bottom housing materials work together to create a relatively high-pitched, clacky sound, the Mamba's top and bottom materials combine to produce a brighter and deeper tone. Therefore, although the specifics may vary, individuals seeking a pleasant and unique sound profile can achieve similar results with either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are both similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Luciola is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Mamba is unavailable. This means that for those looking for a specific actuation force, the Luciola provides a clear option. However, both switches share a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to fully press the keys.

Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing periods and is suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In this case, the lighter actuation force of the Luciola could be a favorable choice. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, if the Mamba's actuation force is heavier than 55 grams, it could be the preferred option. If the Mamba's actuation force is actually lighter or equal to 55 grams, then the two switches would provide similar results in terms of the force required to trigger keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding actuation force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent years. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they provide faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Luciola with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial keystroke, the Mamba's slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Overall, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and how you like the feel of the switch when pressing down on a key.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique and distinctive experience. It is characterized as having a clacky sound which produces a sharp and snappy tone when pressed. This sound profile can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Luciola switch also has a chirpy quality, giving it a subtle squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound, making it suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you prefer a more unique and distinct sound, the Gateron Luciola switch would be a better choice, but if a neutral and versatile sound is your preference, the Durock Mamba switch would be a good option.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a snappy and buttery typing experience. The snappy nature of the switch makes it super responsive, providing a more alive typing experience. This responsiveness may be attributed to longer or dual-staged springs in the switch. Additionally, the buttery feel of the switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, allowing for seamless and effortless typing. The switch is also described as polished, meaning it has a refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, like the Luciola switch, the Mamba switch is also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Luciola switch providing a snappier and buttery feel, while the Mamba switch offers a mild and polished typing sensation.

Considering the available information, the Gateron Luciola and Durock Mamba linear switches showcase noticeable differences in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola switch stands out for its clacky and chirpy sound profile, providing a sharp and distinctive tone when pressed, while the Mamba switch offers a more neutral sound suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Luciola switch offers a snappy and buttery typing experience, characterized by responsiveness and seamless key travel, while the Mamba switch provides a mild and polished typing sensation. Both switches feature a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences. If you appreciate a more unique and distinct sound with a snappier and buttery feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a suitable option. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound and a mild typing experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch would be a great choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a unique visual appeal and an engaging typing experience, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be the better choice for you. With its glow-in-the-dark feature, the Luciola switches are eye-catching and add a touch of excitement to your keyboard. Additionally, these switches are known for their smooth and bouncy typing feel, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience. The Luciola switches also produce a distinct sound profile, described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched, which adds to the overall sensory experience of typing on these switches.

On the other hand, if you value simplicity and a smooth typing sensation, the Durock Mamba linear switch would be more suitable for you. These switches offer a gliding typing sensation, allowing for effortless and fluid keystrokes. The Mamba switches are also praised for their rich and creamy auditory experience, described as thocky, which provides a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. The Mamba switches have a neutral sound profile, making them versatile and suitable for various situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or using them at home or work.

Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Luciola and Durock Mamba linear switches comes down to personal preference. Consider the visual appeal, typing feel, and sound characteristics that resonate with you the most. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more