Gateron Luciola vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh the unique characteristics and performance of each option. Among them, the Gateron Luciola and Haimu Orange Sea offer intriguing alternatives for linear switch fans. The Luciola stands out not only for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature but also for its medium heft, providing a smooth, bouncy typing experience with a distinctive sound reminiscent of a "can of spray paint being shaken." On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea prioritizes an impeccably smooth typing feel paired with a neutral sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more subdued auditory experience while typing. Both switches have their merits; the Luciola is perfect for users who enjoy a tactile sound with their vibrant aesthetics, while the Orange Sea caters to those who favor a quieter, seamless keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Haimu Orange Sea switches, significant differences can be found between their top housing materials. The Gateron Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is noted for producing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that many users describe as satisfying and clacky. This material is designed to provide a crisp auditory feedback, enhancing the typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea features a polycarbonate top housing, which is also linked to a sharper and higher-pitched sound, albeit with a somewhat different quality. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, generates a more resonant sound that emphasizes clarity—especially advantageous for RGB keyboard enthusiasts, as clear housings allow for improved lighting effects.

On the other hand, the distinction in the bottom housing materials marks a contrasting sound character between the Luciola and the Orange Sea. The Luciola’s bottom housing is composed of the same proprietary INK blend as its top, ensuring a consistently high-pitched sound profile throughout the switch. This results in a uniform auditory experience, characterized by a airier tone. In juxtaposition, the Haimu Orange Sea’s bottom housing is made of nylon, a material recognized for its softer traits. This housing tends to absorb more sound, yielding a deeper and fuller auditory response when bottoming out. Thus, while both switches possess high-pitched qualities at the top, the bottom housing of the Orange Sea facilitates a more rounded sound, providing a clear distinction in overall auditory experience.

Ultimately, the interaction between the differing materials of the Luciola and Orange Sea switches impacts their overall sound profiles. When a key is pressed, the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing contributes to both the sound and feel, resulting in a bright and clacky typing experience. Conversely, the nylon bottom of the Orange Sea offers a subtler, fuller sound while still allowing the sharpness from the polycarbonate top to shine upon release. Even though both top housings provide a similar high-pitched quality, the nylon and INK blend combination in the bottom housings leads to different acoustic sensations. Together, these materials create unique and diverse typing experiences that cater to various user preferences.

Weight

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch present a distinct contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Luciola requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Orange Sea boasts a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, placing it firmly in the light category. This difference means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Luciola for its firmer feel, while those who prioritize comfort during extended typing sessions or gaming might favor the lighter touch of the Orange Sea. Ultimately, while they serve similar functions in keystroke activation, the variation in actuation and bottom out forces makes them suitable for different user preferences.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Luciola and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches feature identical travel distances, measuring 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. With both switches having the same travel distance, they should provide similar tactile and audible feedback during use, making the typing experience consistent regardless of which switch is chosen. Therefore, if you prefer one switch over the other for other characteristics, you won't have to adjust to a different travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch presents a unique auditory profile that is distinctively characterized by a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken” quality. This results in a clacky, chirpy, and somewhat marbly sound experience that can be both crisp and high-pitched, making it an engaging auditory option for users who enjoy a bit of aural feedback from their typing. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea switch offers a neutral sound signature that lacks the distinct sonic character of the Luciola. This makes the Orange Sea less intrusive, ideal for those who prefer a more subdued auditory backdrop while typing. It's important to note, however, that the actual sound experience can vary significantly depending on the keyboard build and keycap materials used with either switch.

When it comes to the feel, the Gateron Luciola shines with a lively and responsive typing experience. Users can expect a medium heft, along with a smooth and bouncy sensation that indicates a well-designed switch, enhanced by descriptors like snappy, buttery, and polished. These qualities ensure a seamless and controlled keystroke experience. On the other hand, while the Haimu Orange Sea is noted for its impeccably smooth typing feel, it lacks the specific descriptors that elucidate its tactile characteristics. The absence of detailed feedback leaves it less defined in comparison to the tactile attributes of the Luciola, making it challenging to benchmark the Orange Sea's performance against the more vividly described Luciola experience.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Luciola and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches cater to different user preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola offers a dynamic and engaging auditory experience along with a lively typing feel, making it appealing for those who enjoy character and responsiveness. In contrast, the Orange Sea prioritizes smoothness and a neutral sound profile, which may attract those seeking a quieter and more understated typing experience. Depending on your specific tastes in sound and tactile feedback, either switch could provide an enjoyable typing experience; however, opting for the Luciola will yield a distinctly lively and engaging result, while the Orange Sea will deliver a more subdued and fluid interaction.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the typing experience you seek. If you appreciate a medium resistance that gives you a bit of feedback while typing, along with a unique sound profile that includes clacky, chirpy, and high-pitched characteristics, the Luciola is an excellent choice. Its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature also adds a fun aesthetic element to your setup. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with effortless keystrokes, the Orange Sea is your best bet. With its impeccably smooth feel and neutral sound signature, it is perfect for those who prioritize a seamless and fluid typing experience. In essence, choose the Luciola for a more tactile and acoustic journey, and the Orange Sea for undistracted, smooth typing bliss.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more