Gateron Luciola vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches stand out for their unique features. The Luciola switch is known for its eye-catching glow in the dark design and offers a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a distinct "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch by PH Studio offers a unique auditory blend, combining a high-pitched sound with a muted essence for a gentle balance. With a low bottom-out force and the use of Ly stem material for effortless typing, the Milk Tea switch is ideal for prolonged typing sessions. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics to consider when choosing the best option for your needs. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Luciola and PH Studio Milk Tea both have unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Milk Tea uses a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. These differences in top housing materials result in distinct typing experiences, with the Luciola being more sharp and high-pitched while the Milk Tea is deeper and quieter.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Luciola and Milk Tea continue to showcase their differences. The Luciola utilizes the same proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, contributing to its clacky sound profile. Meanwhile, the Milk Tea features a POM bottom housing that enhances its deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials further emphasizes the differences in sound profiles between the two switches, with the Luciola having a more pronounced bottom-out sound compared to the Milk Tea.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Gateron Luciola and PH Studio Milk Tea, both switches prioritize creating a unique typing experience through their housing materials. While the Luciola's blend of materials results in a sharper and more clacky sound, the Milk Tea's POM housings offer a deeper and more muted typing experience. Both switches showcase how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch, allowing enthusiasts to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Luciola switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Milk Tea's lighter 37.5 grams. Similarly, the Luciola switch also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams in contrast to the Milk Tea's 43.5 grams. This means that the Luciola switch provides a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance, while the Milk Tea switch offers a lighter touch for faster typing speed and less finger fatigue. Both switches, however, fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key utilizing either of these switches, users can expect a consistent travel distance that allows for smooth and precise keystrokes. Whether opting for the Luciola or the Milk Tea, individuals can enjoy a similar typing experience in terms of the travel distance of the switches. The equal travel distance ensures that users will not have to adjust their typing style significantly when switching between these two linear switches.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
The Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy sound profile, reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique auditory experience with a high-pitched yet muted sound, providing a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. While both switches share descriptors such as clacky and high-pitched, the Luciola leans towards a sharper sound, while the Milk Tea focuses on a cleaner and resonant auditory profile. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself but also by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola switch is described as smooth and bouncy, offering a medium heft typing experience. It provides a snappy and buttery feel, giving a responsive and alive sensation to typing. Conversely, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch is designed with a smooth and effortless typing experience in mind, offering a polished and silky feel. Both switches share the descriptor of polished, indicating a refined finish and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. Essentially, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and smooth typing feel, ensuring prolonged typing sessions remain enjoyable.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. While the Luciola offers a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a distinctive sound profile, the Milk Tea provides a high-pitched yet muted sound combined with a polished and silky typing feel. Whether you prefer a sharper or cleaner sound and a snappy or effortless typing feel, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, a bouncy and smooth typing experience, and a clacky or chirpy sound profile, the Luciola may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, an ultra-smooth and polished typing experience, and a high-pitched or marbly sound profile, the Milk Tea switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience and sound profile you find most enjoyable.
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