Gateron Luciola vs. KTT Matcha

Overview

The Gateron Luciola and the KTT Matcha are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and typing experiences. The Luciola is best known for its eye-catching glow in the dark feature, making it a popular choice for users who enjoy a visually striking keyboard setup. It offers a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing feel, accompanied by a distinctive hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is beloved for its tactile feedback, providing a comfortable and snappy typing experience that many users find satisfying. It also offers a clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem design. While these general descriptions give you an idea of what to expect from each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

KTT Matcha Tactile

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the KTT Matcha differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Matcha utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material choice is especially beneficial if RGB lighting is to be used due to its translucency.

Although the housing materials of the Luciola and Matcha differ, they both result in a thin and higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches have a satisfying sound that is not overly sharp, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. However, the Luciola's INK blend provides a unique character to its sound profile, while the Matcha's polycarbonate offers a clearer and more resonant sound. Both switches offer aesthetically pleasing options with their translucent housings, making them visually appealing choices for those interested in customizing their keyboards.

When operating the Luciola and Matcha switches, the qualities of the housing materials will have different impacts. The bottom housing, which is composed of the INK blend or polycarbonate, will significantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it is the INK blend or polycarbonate, will have a greater effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the differing impacts of the housing materials allows users to fine-tune their keyboard's sound and feel based on their preferences. Whether using the Luciola or Matcha, users can expect satisfying experiences with distinct sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Luciola switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Matcha's 40 grams, making the Matcha lighter in this aspect. Similarly, the Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Matcha has a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Luciola switch requires a slightly heavier push to fully press down compared to the Matcha switch.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha switch would be more suitable as it has lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it reduces strain and allows for increased endurance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may prefer the Luciola switch. The Luciola's slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a firmer and more pronounced keystroke, which can be satisfying for those who prefer a heavier switch.

In terms of obtaining similar results, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience could use the Matcha switch as it already offers the desired lower actuation and bottom out forces. For those interested in a heavier typing experience similar to the Luciola switch, one could consider using additional switch modifiers or dampeners to increase the resistance of the Matcha switch. This would allow users to achieve a heavier typing feel without needing to switch to a different switch model. However, it is important to note that modifying switches may require additional research and technical expertise to ensure proper functioning and compatibility.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it becomes clear that the Luciola has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Matcha's travel distance is slightly longer at 4 mm. The Luciola falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are often preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Matcha offers a more substantial depth for those who appreciate a more tactile feel. It is worth noting that both switches provide satisfying key press experiences, but with the Luciola offering a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is best described as having a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken” sound profile. This suggests a unique and slightly resonant sound when pressed. It has not been explicitly mentioned whether the Luciola is clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is simply described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Given this information, it can be inferred that the Luciola may offer a more distinct and resonant sound experience compared to the Matcha, which provides a more standard clacky sound.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is said to have a smooth and bouncy typing feel. It is not explicitly mentioned whether it is snappy, buttery, or polished, but considering the medium heft and bouncy typing feel, it can be assumed that the Luciola provides a responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as having a comfortable and snappy tactility. Additionally, it is mentioned that the Matcha offers a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. From this information, it can be inferred that the Matcha switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback while typing, and its clean bottom-out sound adds to the overall typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel, they both offer desirable qualities for keyboard enthusiasts. The Luciola provides a unique, slightly resonant sound with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, making it a favorable option for those seeking a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Matcha switch offers a satisfyingly snappy tactility and a clean bottom-out sound, making it a great choice for tactile switch enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of sound and feel. However, it is worth noting that the available information suggests that both switches offer positive subjective qualities, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.

Conclusion

In summary, if you prefer a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its bottom out force of 60 grams offers a satisfying resistance while typing. Additionally, the Luciola switches have an eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature and a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile, if that is something you appreciate in a keyboard switch.

Alternatively, if you prioritize a lighter typing experience, the KTT Matcha tactile switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams would be more suitable for you. These switches provide a comfortable and snappy tactility that adds a pleasant feedback to your typing. You can also look forward to a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem.

When it comes to sound, both switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, if you prefer a more varied sound profile, the Luciola also offers descriptors such as chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. On the other hand, the Matcha maintains a consistent clacky sound.

In terms of feel, the Luciola offers a selection of descriptors such as snappy, buttery, and polished. These switches provide a responsive and smooth typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the Matcha offers a stepped feel, which means it has two stages of tactility. It also has descriptors such as accented, feathery, and subtle, giving you options depending on your tactile preference.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch comes down to your personal preference in terms of heft, typing experience, sound, and feel. Consider the qualities that are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

KTT Matcha Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn more