Gateron Luciola vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Luciola and the Cherry MX Black are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Luciola switches are widely recognized for their eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, making them a visually appealing choice. They provide a medium heft, resulting in a smooth and bouncy typing feel. Additionally, the Luciola switches produce a distinct hollow sound profile, reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the MX Black switches from Cherry are renowned for their improvement on an already iconic switch. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a classic textured smoothness, delivering a satisfying typing experience. When using MX Black switches, users can expect a deep sound profile that is familiar and comforting. Both switches have their own merits, offering different typing experiences and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Cherry MX Black switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. Starting with the top housing, the Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend that creates a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. In contrast, the MX Black utilizes nylon as its top housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While the Luciola's top housing emphasizes a sharper sound, the MX Black's nylon top housing offers a more resonant and satisfying typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Luciola and the MX Black incorporate their respective housing materials to affect the sound and feel during bottom-out. The INK blend bottom housing of the Luciola contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, complementing the top housing. Similarly, the MX Black's nylon bottom housing influences the overall sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller profile. Both switch options deliver distinct experiences, with the Luciola favoring a more clacky sound and the MX Black offering a more rounded and resonant bottom-out feel.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. When pressing down, the characteristics of the bottom housing are felt, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role in determining the sound. Although the Luciola and the MX Black have differences in their top and bottom housing materials, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with variations in clackiness, resonance, and overall sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Luciola is lighter, requiring 55 grams of force, while the MX Black requires 60 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, but the Luciola provides a slightly lighter touch.
In terms of bottom out force, the Luciola requires 60 grams, whereas the MX Black is heavier with 80 grams. This means that the MX Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires more force to fully press down.
For those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Luciola switch may be the better option due to its lighter actuation force and bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced push feel and a heavier keystroke, the MX Black switch would be more suitable.
Overall, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Those who enjoy a lighter touch for fluid and effortless typing may gravitate towards the Luciola switch, while individuals seeking a more tangible typing experience may opt for the MX Black switch.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer distinct options. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The MX Black falls within the traditional range of travel distances, while the Luciola offers a slightly shallower option. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Luciola an appealing choice for them. Its shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key feel may lean towards the MX Black with its longer travel distance. This switch provides a deeper sensation when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and what response or depth one desires.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Luciola linear switch can be described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a little squeak and a resonant, high-pitched quality. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. It offers a familiar deep sound when typing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a smooth and bouncy typing experience. It can be described as snappy, buttery, or polished. With longer or dual-staged springs, it provides a super responsive and lively typing feel. The smooth and refined finish of the switch enhances the overall typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as textured and stiff. It has noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may prefer for added tactile feedback. However, it requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, meaning more force needs to be applied when typing.
Taking into account the available information, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola switch provides a snappier and more high-pitched sound profile, while the MX Black switch has a lower-pitched, deeper sound. In terms of feel, the Luciola switch offers a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a polished finish, while the MX Black switch has a textured feel with noticeable friction and a stiffer actuation force. However, it's important to consider personal preference and other factors such as keycaps and keyboard board choice, as they can also impact the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. The Luciola switch is best known for its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, giving it a smooth and bouncy typing feel. It also offers a unique sound profile with options like clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched sounds. On the other hand, the MX Black switch has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. It is characterized by a low-pitched sound and a textured feel, which some users may prefer.
Therefore, if you prioritize a medium bottom out force, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and the option for unique sound profiles, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is a great choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy eye-catching switches that glow in the dark, the Luciola switch is a standout option.
Alternatively, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, a low-pitched sound, and a textured feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is worth considering. The MX Black switch offers a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile that many users find familiar and satisfying.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Luciola and the Cherry MX Black will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and aesthetics. You may find that one switch aligns more closely with your preferences and requirements than the other. Consider experimenting and trying out different switches to find the perfect fit for you.
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