Gateron Luciola vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that stands out in both appearance and typing experience, look no further than the Gateron Luciola and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Luciola switches are known for their eye-catching glow in the dark feature, while the NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer a sharp tactile bump for those who enjoy a more distinct typing feel. The Luciola switches provide a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a unique hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches offer a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving them a slightly deeper tone without the "thocky" quality. The Luciola switches are categorized as snappy, clacky, chirpy, marbly, buttery, high-pitched, and polished, while the Blueberry switches are described as snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches differ in terms of their sound profiles and overall feel. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This results in a satisfying, thin, and clacky sound when typing. In contrast, the Blueberry switch has a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profiles gives the Luciola a sharper and more distinct click, while the Blueberry offers a deeper and softer typing experience.
Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also vary in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing has a pointed and high-pitched sound, contributing to the overall clacky feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing creates a more muted sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. This difference in bottom housing materials affects the bottom-out sound and feel while typing. If you prefer a crisper and clackier typing experience, the Luciola with its INK blend bottom housing would be a better choice. However, if you enjoy a quieter and deeper typing sound, the Blueberry with its POM bottom housing would be more suitable.
It's important to note that if the top and bottom housing materials are the same for both switches, the results will be similar. In this case, the qualities of the housing material will be evenly distributed throughout the switch, impacting both the bottom-out and let-go sound and feel. For example, if both switches utilized POM top and bottom housings, they would both offer a deeper and more muted typing sound. Similarly, if the switches had the same INK blend material for both top and bottom housings, they would provide a consistent clacky sound profile. Therefore, the choice between the Luciola and the Blueberry ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile and overall feel desired.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 55 grams, which means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the lightness of the typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a significant difference. The Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium, while the Blueberry has a bottom out force of 80 grams, which is heavy. This means that the Blueberry switch provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push to fully press down the key. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Luciola would be a better choice, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and robust typing feel may opt for the Blueberry switch due to its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Luciola offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blueberry switch. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is the shallowest option. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prioritize fast response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Luciola switch would be a suitable choice with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and in that case, the Blueberry switch with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 is known for producing a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. This means that when pressed, the Luciola switches create a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have a lower-than-average sound frequency, which is a little deeper than average but not "thocky." This means that the Blueberry switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, providing a clean and sharp sound profile.
When it comes to feel, both the Luciola and Blueberry switches are described as snappy and buttery. They provide a super responsive and fluid keystroke experience, making the typing feel more alive. The Luciola switches also have a smooth and bouncy typing feel, while the Blueberry switches have a very sharp tactile bump, creating a sharp typing feel. Additionally, both switches can be described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Luciola and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola switches produce a clacky and chirpy sound, while the Blueberry switches have a low-pitched and resonant sound. In terms of feel, both switches provide a snappy and buttery typing experience, but the Luciola switches have a smooth and bouncy feel, while the Blueberry switches have a sharp tactile bump.
If you are looking for switches with similar results, you can expect a similar snappy and buttery typing experience from both switches. However, the sound profiles and specific tactile feel will differ between the two. It is important to consider your personal preferences for sound and feel when choosing between the Gateron Luciola and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a medium bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and bouncy typing feel, as well as an eye-catching glow in the dark feature, then the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a great choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile, the Luciola switch is worth considering. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump, which provides a satisfying typing feel, then the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be a suitable option. These switches also offer a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving you a deeper but not "thocky" sound. Ultimately, the Luciola switch is ideal for those seeking a medium force, smooth typing experience with eye-catching features, while the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is preferable for those seeking a heavier force and sharp tactile feedback.
Mentioned in this article
