Gateron Luciola vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Luciola and Cherry MX Purple RGB each present unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark design, providing a visually appealing element to your keyboard setup. Known for its medium heft, the Luciola offers a smooth and bouncy typing feel coupled with a distinctive sound profile reminiscent of a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken.” In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a refined tactile experience, characterized by a short bump that provides satisfying feedback upon actuation. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, these switches balance tactile response with a moderate actuation force, making them a favorite among typists seeking a blend of performance and feel. While the Luciola is ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics and a playful typing experience, the MX Purple RGB caters to users seeking reliability and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Cherry MX Purple RGB, it's evident that they produce distinctly different sound profiles owing to their unique compositions. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing generates a higher-pitched, clacky sound that is characterized as thin yet pleasant to the ears. In contrast, the MX Purple RGB’s nylon top housing offers a deeper, fuller sound profile, producing a duller and rounder sound due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound. This fundamental difference suggests that the sound experience can vary significantly between these two switches, primarily arising from the distinct characteristics of the materials used.

In terms of the bottom housings, a similar contrast exists. The Gateron Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing retains the pointed and high-pitched sound profile, mirroring the top housing's qualities and reinforcing that particular sound signature. In juxtaposition, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its nylon bottom housing, leans into a more muted acoustic experience. The softer nylon absorbs more sound, contributing to a sound that feels rounder and less sharp. Here, the role of each housing can also be highlighted; while the top housing influences the sound upon key release, the bottom housing's impact on sound and feel during bottoming out becomes more pronounced, showcasing how each material contributes differently to the typist's overall experience.

Ultimately, while the Gateron Luciola and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches differ in sound profiles due to their housing materials, they can produce satisfying auditory experiences suited to different preferences. If similar results in sound were desired from both switches, one could achieve this by focusing on the interaction between the individual housings; for example, utilizing Gateron’s INK blend in conjunction with nylon could produce a balanced outcome. However, without such modifications, typists can expect distinctly different acoustic experiences rooted in the materials of each switch’s housing, reflecting the nuanced relationship between materiality and sound in keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, we see a notable difference in actuation force. The Luciola requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Cherry MX Purple. This means that users of the Luciola may experience more resistance during typing or gaming, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a substantial feel to their keystrokes. However, the depth of the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple is currently unknown, while the Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This combination of a higher actuation force and a measurable bottom out force in the Luciola suggests a firmer typing experience overall. Consequently, those who may require longer typing sessions might lean towards the lighter Cherry MX Purple switch for comfort, while those who favor a more tactile and heavier keystroke might prefer the Gateron Luciola.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Luciola linear switch to the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Purple RGB offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Luciola switch is the shorter option, which may be more appealing to gamers seeking faster response times. Conversely, the MX Purple RGB, with its longer travel distance, might be preferred by users who enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing keys. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in keypresses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch produces a unique auditory signature that incorporates clacky, chirpy, and high-pitched elements. This creates a crisp, bright, and percussive experience that is reminiscent of the sound produced when shaking a can of spray paint. The notable high-pitched tone and the slight squeak contribute to a distinct acoustic profile that can be engaging during use. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch does not have specific sound descriptors mentioned, which leaves its auditory characteristics somewhat ambiguous. However, they may still produce a relatively quieter sound compared to the Luciola due to the absence of tailored auditory features, and sound can also vary depending on the board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Luciola switches are designed to evoke a bouncy, snappy typing experience, thanks to their medium heft and responsive nature. The combination of buttery smoothness and a polished finish further enhances the overall tactile sensation, making every key press feel fluid and effortless. These attributes create an immersive typing experience that can be very rewarding, especially for those who appreciate tactile feedback. In contrast, the feel of the Cherry MX Purple RGB remains undefined in this context, but they are acknowledged to offer a refined tactile experience through a medium-strength bump. This tactile feedback can create a satisfying sensation for typists who enjoy feeling the actuation point without overly disrupting the smoothness of their key presses.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Luciola offers a clear advantage in both sound and feel with its distinctive acoustic signature and responsive typing experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB dips into the realm of tactile feedback that may cater to a different audience. The vivid sound profiles and smooth characteristics of the Luciola stand out significantly, resulting in an experience that is lively and engaging. If you're drawn to a snappy and dynamic keyboard experience, the Luciola may be more appealing; however, the Cherry MX Purple RGB might still serve well for those who prioritize tactile feedback without a pronounced auditory signature. Ultimately, your choice will come down to whether you prioritize the vivid sensory experiences of the Luciola or the refined tactile performance of the MX Purple RGB.

Conclusion

In summary, your choice between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who enjoys a medium force and the thrill of a lively typing experience accompanied by a unique aesthetic, the Luciola would be an excellent choice. Its smooth, bouncy feel combined with a clacky and chirpy sound profile makes it ideal for both typing and gaming, especially if you appreciate an eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined tactile experience with a noticeable bump during key presses, the Cherry MX Purple RGB may be the way to go. This switch is perfect for those who value precision in feedback while typing or gaming, with its short and medium-strength bump designed to enhance your overall experience. Ultimately, your selection should consider whether you prioritize aesthetics and sound in your setup or a more tactile and precise feedback mechanism. By reflecting on what feels and sounds best to you, you can make an informed decision that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

Learn more