Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are many factors to consider. Two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Gateron Luciola, a linear switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch. The Gateron Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and unique hollow sound profile reminiscent of a "can of spray paint being shaken." On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is known for its clicky feedback without any specific standout feature. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feel and sound. 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

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches offer different sound profiles and typing experiences due to their unique properties. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Blue switch also allows for RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing choice for those looking to customize their keyboard.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Luciola's INK blend material continues to provide a thin and clacky sound profile, while the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. The nylon material in the Dustproof Blue absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Luciola's bottom housing. This difference in material affects the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and unique sensation to users. Despite their differences in material, both switches excel in their own right, with the Luciola's INK blend offering a clacky sound and the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate and nylon providing sharper and deeper tones, respectively. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, as each material brings its own set of qualities to the typing experience.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch showcase slight differences in their weight. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier at a medium-heavy level. This means that the Dustproof Blue requires a lighter initial push but a heavier press all the way down compared to the Luciola. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use may lean towards the Luciola, while individuals who enjoy a stronger and more substantial typing feel might opt for the Dustproof Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron Luciola linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, the Luciola offers a slightly shorter distance for those seeking a quicker response time. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Luciola for fast-paced gameplay. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue clicky switch may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its distinctive “can of spray paint being shaken” sound profile, which can be described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has no known sound descriptors provided. This suggests that the Luciola may have a more defined and unique sound profile compared to the Dustproof Blue switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is characterized as having a medium heft, providing a smooth and bouncy typing experience. The switch is described as snappy, buttery, and polished, offering a responsive and refined typing sensation. Unfortunately, there are no known feel descriptors provided for the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch. This lack of information makes it difficult to directly compare the typing feel of the Luciola and Dustproof Blue switches.

Considering the available information, it appears that the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a more detailed understanding of its sound and feel qualities compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch. While the Luciola has a unique and well-defined sound profile, as well as a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the subjective qualities of the Dustproof Blue switch remain unknown. In practice, if you enjoy a switch with a defined sound profile and a responsive typing experience, the Luciola may be a reliable choice. Conversely, if you are uncertain about the sound and feel of the Dustproof Blue switch, it might be beneficial to seek more information or try out the switch in person to determine if it aligns with your preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, a smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a switch that glows in the dark, the Luciola may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch, the Dustproof Blue could be the right fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to see which one feels the most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more