Gateron Luciola vs. Dareu Master

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Master, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Luciola is known for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature and offers a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a unique sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch is an all-POM linear switch that provides a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. While the Luciola has a medium heft and a variety of sound profiles, the Master switch strikes a medium weight balance and is categorized as clacky and polished. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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

Dareu Master Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Master have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of their switches. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky, while the Master utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. The bottom housings of the Luciola and Master switches follow the same trend, with the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing offering a similar profile to its top housing, and the Master's POM bottom housing providing a deeper and more muted sound. Overall, the housing materials in both switches contribute to the unique sound profiles they offer, with the Luciola leaning towards a thinner, sharper sound and the Master delivering a deeper, more subdued sound.

One key difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Master is the sound profile they produce. The INK blend top and bottom housings of the Luciola create a thin, high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the POM top and bottom housings of the Master deliver a deeper, more muted sound. When typing on these switches, users will notice a distinct difference in sound, with the Luciola offering a sharper, more distinctive typing experience and the Master providing a smoother, deeper sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches.

While the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Master contribute to their unique sound profiles, they also have similarities in the way they impact typing feel. The bottom housings of both switches have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housings play a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in responsibilities between the top and bottom housings ensures that users can experience a balanced typing experience that combines the qualities of both materials. Overall, while the housing materials of the Luciola and Master switches may differ in terms of sound profile, their impact on typing feel helps to create a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for users.

Weight

The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch, which requires 45 grams of force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Luciola requires 60 grams compared to the Master's unknown force. This means that the Luciola switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Master switch with its lower actuation force. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, but the Luciola is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, we can see that the Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Master has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the Luciola has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master. For those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel, the Luciola may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immediate and responsive keypress, the Master's shorter travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that caters to those looking for quick key response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy sound profile, resembling the sound of a can of spray paint being shaken. In contrast, the Dareu Master linear switch is also described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience with their distinct characteristics, allowing users to enjoy the unique sound each switch produces.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is praised for its snappy and buttery typing feel, providing a bouncy and smooth keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone for most users. Both switches are said to have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing sensation.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Luciola and Dareu Master linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a premium typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer the medium heft and glow-in-the-dark feature of the Luciola or the classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness of the Master, you can expect a high-quality performance from either switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a unique glow-in-the-dark feature, the Gateron Luciola would be a great choice. The Luciola offers a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a distinct sound profile that can be described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium weight and a classic clacky sound signature, the Dareu Master would be the way to go. The Master provides exceptional smoothness in operation and a sound profile that is primarily clacky. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, typing feel, sound profile, and any specific features like glow-in-the-dark capabilities.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Master Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more