Gateron Luciola vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Luciola and the KTT Miaowu are both linear switches, offering different characteristics to suit various preferences. The Luciola is renowned for its unique glowing feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and distinctive sound profile. On the other hand, the Miaowu leverages KTT's latest molds for enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, featuring POK stems for added durability. While the Luciola offers a range of characteristics like 'Snappy', 'Clacky', and 'Buttery', the Miaowu is known for being 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different users depending on their typing style and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Luciola and KTT Miaowu switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their different top and bottom housing materials. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Miaowu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu is especially beneficial for those looking to enhance their RGB lighting setup due to its translucency.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Gateron Luciola's proprietary INK blend results in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile as its top housing. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the Nylon bottom housing of the Miaowu offering a unique typing experience compared to the Luciola.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Luciola and KTT Miaowu switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profiles. While the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing materials offer a satisfying thin and clacky sound, the Miaowu's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing materials provide a sharper, crisper sound with deeper and fuller tones. Both switches have their strengths and unique qualities, so it's crucial for users to consider the type of sound profile they prefer before making a decision between the two.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Luciola is heavier while the Miaowu is lighter. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a lighter typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Miaowu switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push when typing may prefer the Luciola switch. Both switches provide a different tactile experience, catering to the preferences of different users. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for increased response time. However, the Luciola offers just a bit more depth compared to the Miaowu. If you prioritize a slightly deeper key press, the Luciola may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker and shallower press, the Miaowu could be the switch of choice. Ultimately, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance, offering similar results in terms of speed and efficiency.
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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, which can be characterized as sharp, bright, and clean. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as having a clacky sound, which shares some similarities with the Luciola. However, the Luciola may offer a more diverse sound experience due to its range of descriptors. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound may come down to personal preference and the surrounding keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience, providing a responsive and smooth keystroke feel. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu linear switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving the keys a spring-like feedback when pressed. While both switches aim to deliver a pleasant typing experience, the differences in feel between the two may cater to different preferences. Deciding between them may hinge on whether one prefers a snappy and refined feel or a bouncy and lively feedback during typing sessions.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch each offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Luciola may provide a more diverse sound profile with its various descriptors, the Miaowu offers a bouncy sensation that can appeal to those seeking a lively typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences, such as sound preference, typing feel, and overall keyboard setup. It's important to try out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy switches that glow in the dark with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Gateron Luciola may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, along with a clacky sound profile and bouncy typing feel, the KTT Miaowu could be the better fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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